Language and Dialect Classification

The video explores the distinctions between languages, dialects, and accents. It highlights the political nature of language classification, using examples from Scandinavia and China. The video also discusses the value judgments associated with dialects and suggests using the term 'variety' to avoid these issues. Finally, it clarifies the relationship between dialects and accents.

What humorous claim does the speaker make about the languages they speak?

• They speak five fictional languages.

• They speak five dialects of Chinese.

• They speak five varieties of English.

• They speak five official languages.

What is the humorous take on speaking 'American'?

• It's a variety of Chinese.

• It's a fictional language.

• It's a dialect of English.

• It's a separate language.

What is the main difference between a language and a dialect according to the video?

• A language is older than a dialect.

• A language has an army and a navy, while a dialect does not.

• A language is more complex than a dialect.

• A language is always written, while a dialect is not.

What is the main point of the saying by Max Weinreich?

• Languages are universally accepted.

• Dialects are more culturally significant.

• Languages are defined by political power.

• Languages are more powerful than dialects.

What example is given to illustrate the political nature of language classification?

• The division between American and British English.

• The separation of Mandarin and Cantonese.

• The mutual intelligibility of Scandinavian languages.

• The distinction between French and Spanish.

Which of the following is NOT considered a separate language despite mutual intelligibility?

• Swedish

• Mandarin

• Norwegian

• Danish

What is the main reason for the classification of languages and dialects being inexact?

• Historical inaccuracies.

• Political and cultural factors.

• Lack of linguistic research.

• Technological limitations.

Why do linguists prefer to use the term 'variety' instead of 'language' or 'dialect'?

• To simplify academic papers.

• To make language learning easier.

• To promote cultural diversity.

• To avoid value judgments.

What is a common misconception about dialects?

• They are improper forms of speech.

• They are more complex than languages.

• They are universally understood.

• They are only spoken, not written.

What is the suggested term to avoid the language-dialect debate?

• Accent

• Variety

• Jargon

• Slang