Let's Talk About Dialects

Hello once again! One of the things that I've always been particularly frustrated with (and interested in at the same time) are dialects. Dialect is the language spoken within a particular region and can vary significantly from the more proper language used in a nation. New dialects can be discovered by simply moving from one region to another; however, a dialect may or may not have subtle differences. Therefore, one may not notice a new dialect when first encountered.

Recently, I was able to recall an old video that I watched when I was in high school. The video, Mapping How Americans Talk - Soda vs. Pop vs. Coke, analyzes some of the differences in dialects used within the United States and also provides a map of the general area where the dialects are used.

After watching the video, it may come as surprise to some to see everyday words switched with a completely different word from region to region. Most are probably aware of interchangeable words like sneakers and tennis shoes; however, it's certainly intriguing that those particular words are actually from different dialects. It is likely that an individual may be confused or frustrated by the appearance of different words/phrases for common things.

The frustration with the presence of unfamiliar dialects could arise from various aspects. Perhaps dialects prove as an obstacle when trying to have a conversation and eventually leading to misunderstandings.  For the language learner, dialects may prove as a tremendous difficulty for non-native speakers. However, dialects don't have to be so terribly intimidating as they can equally be (or more) amusing.

I would hope that for most people, the video was interesting and fun to watch. One of the aspects to take away from this short video is that is shows the uniqueness of various regions. Rather than being perfectly proper by following the same conventions throughout the entire nation, it's more interesting to have variety as it develops unique identities for separate regions. The evolution in languages in different regions clearly identifies those societies as uniquely different from the rest and gives the people an original identity.

In the picture below, various American dialects are mapped out accordingly to the regions where a specific dialect is popular. As one can see, there are several distinct dialects that  exist in America.

For those who are interested in seeing significantly different dialects of English, I would highly recommend watching Trainspotting (1996) as the critically acclaimed film displays a wonderful example of Scottish English. The movie was adapted from the novel of the same name originally published in 1993. The novel may be quite a challenge to read at first, but by simply reading aloud, the sentences can be understood albeit sometimes nearly impossible. However, while it may be difficult, it's quite fun to figure it out as well.

Here's a line taken from the book: "Ah called him 'Simon' rather than 'Si' or 'Sick Boy' tae emphasize the seriousness ay what ah wis sayin" (Welsh 5). In standard English, the excerpt may be translated as "I called him 'Simon' rather than 'Si' or 'Sick Boy' to emphasize the seriousness of what I was saying."

Dialects exist all over the world, and continue to develop as time passes on. Perhaps the dialects of the United States will eventually evolve significantly and become extreme examples like Scottish English. It's important to remember that while dialects can prove to be a hindrance at times, it portrays the uniqueness of different societies while also providing entertainment at times. Therefore, try to delve more into different dialects from time to time in order to possibly further understand the people who speak those dialects.


Welsh, Irvine. Trainspotting. New York, NY: Norton, 2002. Print.