Preskriptivisten

Preskriptivisten, or the prescriptivist, is a term used in linguistics and language criticism to describe an approach that prescribes how language should be used rather than how it is used. Prescriptivists advocate fixed norms for grammar, vocabulary, punctuation, and style, often drawing on established authorities such as grammars, dictionaries, and style guides. Their aim is to uphold standard forms believed to promote clarity, precision, and effective communication, and to preserve historical or literary prestige.

Historically, prescriptivism has roots in early modern grammar and lexicography, with influential works that articulated normative rules. In education and publishing, prescriptivist conventions have shaped curricula and editorial practices. In contemporary discussions, prescriptivism is commonly contrasted with descriptivism, which seeks to describe language as it is actually used without judging it by external standards.

Practices associated with prescriptivism include codified rules about grammar and syntax, punctuation norms, and usage recommendations that may be seen as traditional or conservative. Examples often cited as emblematic of prescriptive thinking include avoiding split infinitives, not ending sentences with prepositions, or preferring certain formal alternatives to colloquial forms. Critics argue that prescriptivism can suppress linguistic variation, stigmatize dialects, and resist natural language change, while supporters contend that it helps maintain clear communication, consistency in education and publishing, and access to standard forms across communities.

In modern linguistics, prescriptivism is studied as a normative stance within broader debates about language standardization, variation, and the social functions of language policy. See also descriptivism, standard language ideology, and usage guides.