üldkeeli

Üldkeeli is a term used in sociolinguistics to describe a language that serves as a common means of communication among speakers of different native languages within a multilingual community. The concept emphasizes function over ethnicity or nation, and it often arises through language contact, social interaction, and the perceived utility or prestige of particular varieties.

Emergence and status: An üldkeeli may develop informally as people adopt a broadly intelligible language for intergroup communication. It can be learned as a second language and may acquire codified norms through schooling, media, and administration. It is not inherently tied to a single nation, though institutions may promote specific forms of it as standard.

Relation to standard language and dialects: The üldkeeli often overlaps with the community's standard language, but its defining feature is social function as a lingua franca rather than official status. It remains distinct from regional dialects and from speakers' mother tongues, though users may switch among varieties depending on context.

Functions and variation: In multilingual settings, the üldkeeli supports communication in governance, education, commerce, and media, facilitating mutual understanding across groups. Variation exists across regions and social strata, with a core grammar and vocabulary plus local lexical loans and phonetic features shaped by contact.

Scholarly and policy context: The concept is discussed in sociolinguistics as part of studies of lingua francas, standardization, and language planning. In practice, how an üldkeeli is defined, taught, and promoted depends on historical, social, and political factors of the community in question.