üleminekukeelena

Üleminekukeelena is a term used in sociolinguistics to describe a language that is adopted temporarily to facilitate communication during a period of linguistic transition. The name reflects its function as a bridge rather than as a final or preferred language of a community.

Definition and scope: Üleminekukeelena denotes any language variety used explicitly to smooth interaction between groups as they move toward a more stable language arrangement. It can be a naturally occurring language, a pidgin, a creole, or a standardized form that is mobilized for a specific transitional phase, and it is typically intended to be provisional.

Functions and characteristics: As a transition tool, it supports administration, education, trade, and public communication while communities work toward a long-term language policy. It is often characterized by limited intergenerational transmission, reduced standardization, and deliberate design or selection to meet practical needs during the transition. The status of üleminekukeelena is typically time-bound and pragmatic rather than normative or permanent.

Contexts and implications: This concept is used in discussions of language policy, post-conflict or post-macroeconomic reforms, migration, and multilingual education. It highlights how societies manage linguistic change, social integration, and access to public services during periods of upheaval or reform. The transition language may eventually be phased out, evolve into an official language, or be replaced by another stable language configuration.

See also: lingua franca, pidgin, creole, language planning.