dialect

The word “dialect” means a form of a language spoken in a particular region or by a particular group, differing from the standard version in vocabulary, grammar, or pronunciation. In plain terms, a regional or social variety of a language, with its own words, sounds, or grammar quirks.

“Dialect” is pronounced DEYE-uh-lehkt (/ˈdaɪ.əˌlɛkt/ in IPA).

Here is “dialect” used in a sentence: “The novel is written partly in a Yorkshire dialect.”

“Dialect” is a noun.

The word “dialect” comes from French. From French dialecte, from Greek dialektos ("conversation, local speech"), from dialegesthai ("to converse").

“Dialect” is an uncommon word in modern English.

A dialect is a regional or social variation of a language that differs in vocabulary, grammar, or pronunciation but remains largely mutually understandable with other varieties of that language. A separate language is usually distinguished by a lack of mutual intelligibility, though in practice the line between dialect and language can be blurry and is often influenced by political or cultural factors rather than linguistics alone.

An accent refers only to differences in pronunciation, while a dialect involves differences in vocabulary and grammar as well as pronunciation. In other words, every dialect includes an accent, but an accent alone does not make something a distinct dialect.

No, a dialect is simply a legitimate regional or group variation of a language rather than an incorrect version of a standard form. Linguists treat dialects as equally valid systems of communication, even though one dialect may be designated the "standard" for education or official use.