varietieshas

Varietieshas is a term used in linguistic typology and data modeling to denote the presence of a particular feature across a set of language varieties. In data schemas, varietieshas can function as a predicate that summarizes feature distribution among varieties, enabling comparisons and statistical analysis. The concept emphasizes cross-variety coverage rather than analysis of any single language.

Formally, varietieshas(F, V, d) is considered true when the proportion of varieties in V that realize feature F at level d meets or exceeds a defined threshold τ. Here F is a feature, V is a set of varieties, d is a degree or intensity, and τ ∈ [0,1] is a user-chosen cutoff. If the threshold is not met, varietieshas(F, V, d) is false. When used with graded measurements, the predicate can be extended with confidence intervals or weighting schemes.

Common applications include typological surveys, feature matrices in linguistic databases, and input for machine learning models that compare language varieties. It allows researchers to encode coarse-grained universals or areal tendencies as simple predicates.

Limitations include dependency on data quality, feature definitions, and sample composition. The choice of threshold τ and degree d can markedly affect results, so transparent reporting of parameters is essential.

See also: linguistic universals, areal features, feature matrices, language typology.