Stratum (linguistics)
Stratum in linguistics is like a cake with different layers. Just like a cake has a bottom layer, middle layer, and top layer, languages also have different layers or strata.
In linguistics, a stratum refers to a particular layer of a language that has been added over time. These layers can come from different sources, such as language contact (when two languages come into contact with each other and start influencing each other), cultural developments, or changes in society.
To better understand this, imagine you are making a new cake recipe and you decide to add some frosting on top. The frosting is like a new layer, which you add on top of the cake. Similarly, when languages come into contact with each other, they start exchanging words, grammar rules, and sounds. This exchange is like adding frosting on top of the cake, creating a new layer or stratum of the language.
Another example is how slang words become part of a language's lexicon. Slang words are often used by a particular group of people, like teenagers or hip-hop artists, and gradually become more widespread. This new layer of slang becomes part of the language, adding a new stratum.
In short, stratum in linguistics refers to the different layers of a language that have been added over time, often influenced by language contact, cultural changes, or social developments.
In linguistics, a stratum refers to a particular layer of a language that has been added over time. These layers can come from different sources, such as language contact (when two languages come into contact with each other and start influencing each other), cultural developments, or changes in society.
To better understand this, imagine you are making a new cake recipe and you decide to add some frosting on top. The frosting is like a new layer, which you add on top of the cake. Similarly, when languages come into contact with each other, they start exchanging words, grammar rules, and sounds. This exchange is like adding frosting on top of the cake, creating a new layer or stratum of the language.
Another example is how slang words become part of a language's lexicon. Slang words are often used by a particular group of people, like teenagers or hip-hop artists, and gradually become more widespread. This new layer of slang becomes part of the language, adding a new stratum.
In short, stratum in linguistics refers to the different layers of a language that have been added over time, often influenced by language contact, cultural changes, or social developments.
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