Historical Linguistics Essay

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Historical linguistics focuses on how language has changed over time. It centers on different aspects that have developed over years of developments and how that has affected language as we know it today. It compares different languages to each other, noting the similarities of certain dialects and the differences they have. While historical linguistics uses centuries of comparisons to explain language, sociolinguistics uses cultural and social influences to explain how language is formed. Sociolinguistics studies how your social status and your ethnic background shape how you say certain words and they meaning behind them. Both are very important in understanding communications of diverse cultures. Sociolinguistics has various areas of study that are fascinating in our understanding of human communications. Gender differences in language may depend on which culture you are raised in. Studies of the Euro-American culture reveals females tend to speak in a more polite manner then that of those male counterparts. Women tend to speak indirectly in order to find what the other person really wants. Men on the other hand get straight to the point and "don't beat around the bush." Another interesting area of study is Ebonics. Ebonics is referred to "African American Vernacular English." This language based on the English language, mixes in characteristics with it's African roots. Ebonics adds diversity into any setting where otherwise, they are restricted to one world of the English language. Last but by far least, code switching or switching between two or more languages during a conversation or interaction with another person. This form of sociolinguistics combines two languages that have little similarities into one communication. The two languages may begin to influence each other in the way you form sentences, the order you put your words, the use of pronouns, tense

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