Language is a tool that allows us to communicate with others, express our ideas, thoughts, feelings, emotions, etc., as well as transmit all kinds of knowledge. It’s consisting of a set of symbols and signs that have the function of representing reality.
This one is composed of different levels; in this article we will know the 3 levels of the language, as well as the sublevels of these. We will see what their fundamental characteristics are and in what contexts they are usually used.
The different levels of language
Thus, we know that language is made up of different levels. The levels, in turn, are the different registers which are used for speaking or writing; these are adapted to the circumstances of the environment, the sender and/or the receiver. That is to say, we will not speak the same if the context is popular, if it is formal, informal, vulgar, cult or colloquial; thus, we adapt ourselves to the environment and to the situation.
In this way, we see how the levels of language are related to the communicative situation (if it is oral or written, for example, or if it is a formal, informal situation…) and to our receiver or addressee. In addition, they also relate to the educational level of the sender of the message.
Language levels are configured based on a series of characteristics, such as pronunciation, grammatical constructions, the use of certain concepts and/or words, etc.
We know that a person can use a certain level of language, including also elements of another level, depending on your situation. In other words, although one or the other level is generally used, two or more can be used at the same time (although usually one of them predominates).
Now, let’s find out what the three levels of language consist of:
1. Substandard level
The first of the language levels, the substandard level, is characterized by the fact that the emitter is not particularly interested in using words neatly and correctly. This level is made up of two sub-levels:
1.1 Popular language
Popular language (or popular language) is characterized because it is very colloquial. It is used by people in their daily lives when they are in everyday and informal environments. Approximately about 2,000 words are part of this sublevel of language (these words being in common use); to these 2,000 words are added 5,000 that are less used but generally understood by all.
What are the characteristics of popular language? It is based on a wide use of adjectives. In addition, it is considered a language that uses many exaggerated expressions and metaphors (e.g. “it is longer than a day without bread”), and that emphasizes the expression of imprecise quantities (e.g. “many, many”).
On the other hand, it is typical that when we use popular language, we use incomplete sentences (for example “if she knew…”). In addition, it is characterized by a language rich in proverbs and sayings.
Finally, popular language is dominated by the appellative (or conative) function of language, where the sender seeks the reaction of the receiver through what he is explaining.
1.2. Vulgar language
The second sublevel of the substandard record of language is vulgar language. This is a very informal type of language, especially used by people with a low level of education. It is characterized by poor language (few words) and shallow meaning. For these reasons it is very common to complement vulgar language with the use of gestures.
What are the characteristics of vulgar language? It is a language that adapts very little to situations, that is to say, it is quite limiting in this sense. Uses above all jargon or words related to certain professions or specific areas. In other words, each profession or field has its “own” language.
On the other hand, it is a language where many short sentences are used; crutches are also used (words or expressions that we repeat constantly when we are nervous, as “tic”), incorrect words, badly pronounced or incomplete, vulgarisms and barbarisms, etc.
In addition, when we speak vulgar language, we frequently invert pronouns, we abuse typically local expressions (or regional), and we do not speak (or write) in a logical or meaningful order. It usually includes obscenities and swear words, as well as all kinds of errors (syntactic, lexical and phonetic).
2. Standard level
The second of the language levels is the standard level. The standard language is more correct than the previous one (at the level of errors, uses, etc.). In addition, it is considered the correct language of a given territory; that is, It’s the right language “as a rule.”the local referent. Writing it or speaking it in another way is considered to be making a language error at the formal level.
Colloquial language
The standard level has a single “sub-level”; colloquial language. But what are its characteristics? It is characterised by its use in trusting, informal environments (although it is more correct than level 1, of course).
It is therefore a correct but close language; it is the most spoken language in the world (regardless of the language used). Here it is not so important to take care of the syntax. Thus, it is a spontaneous, common language, which admits certain errors or inaccuracies (especially in its oral modality). May include repetitions, use of augmentatives and diminutives (also derogatory words), interjections, ready-made phrases, etc.
People who use it can easily improvise through colloquial language (and they often do); moreover, it is characterized by having many affective expressions.
3. Superstandard level
The next of the language levels is the superstandard level. The superstandard level is rare (i.e., spoken by “few” people or infrequently). In turn, this level is divided into three sub-levels:
3.1. Cult language
They speak the cultured language highly educated and well-educated people (with a high educational level). In this type of language, grammatical and phonetic rules are very much respected. Its degree of formality is high. It is used, for example, in conferences, master classes, courses, intellectual circles, etc.
What makes it stand out? For being a language very rich in vocabularyfor being very precise, for arranging ideas in a very clear and logical way, etc. It is full of cultisms, that is, words in Greek or Latin. Syntax and grammar are good. When used orally, pronunciation is usually impeccable and intonation is moderate.
3.2. Scientific-technical language
This type of language is used to specific fields of study or work(a) to promote the development of a culture of peace, in particular in the fields of science, culture and technology. This type of language is shared by certain communities, practically exclusively (however, some of their words may become popular).
What are its characteristics? It consists of a very precise and objective language, with a logical order. In addition, it is accompanied by its own system of symbols. It uses acronyms, technical words and anglicisms. The function of language that predominates in scientific-technical language is the referential or representative function (which focuses on transmitting information and making reality known).
Bibliographic references
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Belinchón, M., Riviere, A. and Igoa, J.M. (1992). Language psychology, research and theory. Trotta. Madrid
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Escandell, M.V. (coord..). 2009. Human language. Madrid: Editorial Universitaria Ramón Areces-UNED.
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Martín, M. and Siguán, M. (1991). Communication and language. Alhambra. Madrid (Volume IV of Mayor and Pinillos: Treatise on General Psychology).