Nyelvként

Nyelvként is a linguistic term that originates from Hungarian, literally meaning “as a language.” The word is formed from *nyelv*, meaning “tongue” or “language,” and the suffix *-ként*, which denotes a role, capacity or manner. It is used in Hungarian discussions of language status, function, and identity, often to emphasize that a particular designation or aspect is considered within the framework of a language rather than a mere dialect, code or jargon. For example, a researcher may say that a linguistic sign is "nyelvként" used, implying that the sign functions as a full linguistic element with its own phonology and grammar. In sociolinguistics, the phrase appears when differentiating between languages used for communication and those used for literary or ritual purposes; a speaker might argue that a particular dialect is “nyelvként” distinct from another despite mutual intelligibility. The term is also employed in policy discussions surrounding language protection and standardization, where a minority speech community may claim that its variety should be recognized "nyelvként" to qualify for state support. Although common in academic Hungarian texts, nyelvként is rarely found in everyday speech; instead it serves a precise analytical purpose in studies of language function and identity.