Dialetto

Dialetto refers to a form of language spoken by a specific community, typically defined by geography, social group, or ethnic identity. Dialects are varieties of a language; they share a common core grammar and lexicon but differ in pronunciation, vocabulary, and sometimes syntax. Whether a particular variety is called a dialect or a language can be influenced by cultural, political, and historical factors.

Dialects exist along a continuum known as a dialect continuum, where neighboring varieties are mutually intelligible to some degree, but distant varieties diverge enough to reduce intelligibility. Features can include distinctive phonology (sounds), morphological patterns, and regionally specific words or expressions.

The relationship between dialects and the standard language varies by context. In many countries, the standard language is used in formal education, media, and administration, while dialects are common in home, local communities, and informal settings. Attitudes toward dialects range from strong pride to stigmatization, and language policy often shapes their status and transmission.

In linguistics, the study of dialects—dialectology—examines how variation is distributed geographically and socially, how it changes over time, and how dialects influence identity. Documentation and preservation of dialects can be important for cultural heritage, linguistic diversity, and historical linguistics.

Examples of regional dialects exist in many languages, such as Italian dialects (e.g., Sicilian, Neapolitan), English dialects (e.g., Scouse, Geordie), and other languages. Dialects continue to evolve, influenced by migration, media, and contact with other languages.