standard language

Standard languages arise when a certain dialect begins to be used in written form, normally throughout a broader area than that of the dialect itself. The ways in which this language is used—e.g., in administrative matters, literature, and economic life—lead to the minimization…

In particular, standard languages should be distinguished from local dialects. Every language has its local spoken forms, but not every group in the world has created a standard language. In order to make one, someone must choose which one or more of the local dialects will serve…

…ways of speaking as “standard languages”; once a standard is defined, it is treated as prestigious and appropriate, while others languages or dialects are marginalized and stigmatized.