The Social Meanings of Language, Dialect and Accent

This book explores how language, dialect, and accent shape social judgments, offering insights into the field of language attitudes research.

This volume offers a significant contribution to the field of language attitudes research, focusing on how various languages, dialects, and accents influence our social judgments about individuals. The Social Meanings of Language, Dialect and Accent delves into the complex interplay between linguistic forms and societal perceptions, exploring how these elements shape our understanding of identity and belonging. The essays included in this work examine evaluations of speech styles across different nations, providing a comparative perspective that has not been previously explored on a global scale.

The content of The Social Meanings of Language, Dialect and Accent is culturally rich and features contributions from distinguished scholars worldwide. Each chapter presents unique theoretical interpretations, enriching the discourse on language attitudes and offering diverse models that enhance our comprehension of this intricate field. This collection not only highlights the importance of language in social contexts but also addresses the pressing need for contemporary research that reflects the complexities of the 21st century.

Cindy Gallois, a prominent figure in language attitudes research for over three decades, provides an insightful epilogue that reflects on the current state of the field. Her contributions, along with those of other scholars, make this volume a vital resource for anyone interested in understanding the social implications of language use in today's interconnected world.