hochdeutschen

Hochdeutsch, or High German, refers to the standardized form of the German language used for formal communication across German-speaking regions. It also designates the group of Central and Upper German dialects that underwent the High German consonant shift in the medieval period, setting them apart from the Low German (Plattdeutsch) dialects spoken in the north. In contemporary usage, Hochdeutsch generally means Standard German, the variety taught in schools and used in administration, journalism, literature, and media.

Historically, the Hochdeutsch lineage runs from Old High German in the early medieval era through Middle High German to Early New High German by the 18th century. Standardization accelerated with the translation of the Bible by Martin Luther in the 16th century and continued through later orthographic reforms. The modern standard, while largely uniform in grammar and core vocabulary, accommodates regional differences in pronunciation and lexicon.

Geographically, Standard German is broadly uniform in written form, but spoken Hochdeutsch varies by country. Germany and Austria share most core features, though Austria preserves distinct terms and usages. Switzerland uses Swiss Standard German for formal writing and broadcasting, while everyday speech remains dominated by various Swiss German dialects. Hochdeutsch is distinguished from Niederdeutsch (Low German), which covers the northern dialect continuum.

Orthography and education are centered on a standardized norm governed by language policy and reform efforts, such as the 1990s orthography reform and subsequent updates. It underpins schooling, official communication, and media, while regional dialects and local varieties continue to thrive in informal settings.

In summary, Hochdeutsch serves as the basis for Standard German across the German-speaking world, coexisting with regional dialects and country-specific varieties. Related topics include the High German consonant shift, Standard German, Swiss German, Austrian German, and Niederdeutsch.