A Comparative Analysis: Descriptivism versus Prescriptivism in Linguistics

When reading an academic article, do you focus on the language usage or try to interpret the underlying intentions? Similarly, when conversing with a friend, do you pay attention to the way they use language or the meaning they are trying to convey? These questions highlight the fundamental differences between two approaches to linguistic analysis: descriptivism and prescriptivism. Let's delve into these contrasting techniques to better understand their distinctions.

Descriptivism and prescriptivism are two opposing attitudes towards language, each with its own purpose. Descriptivism refers to the study of how language is used by its speakers and writers. It takes a non-judgmental stance towards language usage and aims to analyze it objectively.

In contrast, prescriptivism imposes strict rules on language usage, dictating what is considered "correct" and "incorrect". It establishes the superiority of certain language forms, such as Standard English, while deeming others as incorrect.

Understanding Descriptivism and Prescriptivism

Prescriptivism in linguistics is the belief that one form of language is superior to others and should be strictly adhered to. It enforces rules on language usage and labels certain words, phrases, and grammar as "correct" or "incorrect". Those who adopt a prescriptivist approach are often known as prescriptivists and prioritize the "proper" use of language.

This idea of "correct" language usage is often associated with societal hierarchies and is typically determined by those in positions of power. In the UK, these institutions of power include the state and the church. Today, institutions like the Oxford English Dictionary and the Cambridge English Dictionary serve as authoritative sources for standardizing the English language and dictating what is considered proper grammar and vocabulary.

In England and Wales, prescriptivists advocate for adherence to Standard English, which includes RP (Received Pronunciation accent) and the grammar and vocabulary of BE (British English, also known as Standard English).

Differentiating Descriptivism and Prescriptivism

To better understand the distinctions between descriptivism and prescriptivism, let's examine some examples:

Examples of Descriptivism

Consider these two phrases:

• "I ain't got no money."
• "I don't have any money."

A descriptivist would argue that both of these phrases are acceptable because they convey the same meaning and are commonly understood by English speakers. Descriptivism focuses on analyzing how language is used in everyday situations.

Examples of Prescriptivism

In contrast, prescriptivists would insist on using "It is I" instead of "It's me" because the latter is considered grammatically incorrect, despite its frequent usage. Prescriptivists may also debate the usage of phrases like "fewer than" and "less than" in order to determine the grammatically correct option. Double negatives and other grammatical errors are not tolerated by prescriptivists.

Many prescriptivists believe that Standard English, also known as "the Queen's English", is the superior form of language.

Analyzing the Differences between Descriptivism and Prescriptivism

Descriptivism and prescriptivism are two opposing attitudes towards language. Prescriptivists focus on enforcing pre-established grammar rules, while descriptivists aim to analyze language as it evolves over time and is used in everyday situations.

Prescriptivism is often applied in fields like education and publishing, where maintaining a standard practice is of great importance. Descriptivism, on the other hand, is commonly used by academic linguists to study different forms of language usage.

In conclusion, descriptivism focuses on the objective analysis of language, while prescriptivism prioritizes the "correct" usage of language.

Understanding Descriptivism and Prescriptivism in Language

In the study of language, there are two main approaches: descriptivism and prescriptivism. While they may share some similarities, their beliefs and views on language usage differ greatly.

Descriptivism is a non-judgmental approach that does not assign value to any particular form of language. All varieties of language are considered valid and useful without hierarchy or criticism.

On the other hand, prescriptivism believes in a "right" and "wrong" way to use language. This approach emphasizes the correctness of one form of language over others, often judging some forms as inferior or improper.

Benefits of Descriptivism

Descriptivism has several advantages that make it a favored linguistic approach:

• Destigmatization of Non-Standard Forms: By studying language without hierarchy or criticism, descriptivism helps to reduce the negative connotations surrounding non-standard forms of speech and writing.
• Bridging Social Gaps: Descriptivism also considers the language usage of socially-stigmatized groups, bridging the gap between different social groups and their diverse language forms.
• Accurate Reflection of Language Usage: As descriptivism focuses on everyday language usage, it provides a more accurate representation of how language is actually used compared to prescriptivism, which prioritizes standard rules.
• Acknowledges Language Evolution: The descriptivist approach recognizes and understands the ways in which language evolves and adapts in different communities, allowing for the preservation of cultural heritage.

Benefits of Prescriptivism

Despite its outdated reputation, prescriptivism still holds value in the linguistic world. Its benefits include:

• Standardization: Prescriptivism is often used in formal settings such as education and publishing, where standard language use is maintained across the country.

Descriptivism vs Prescriptivism: Key Takeaways

The key difference between descriptivism and prescriptivism lies in their attitudes towards language. Prescriptivism values one "correct" form of language, while descriptivism acknowledges the diverse and evolving nature of language.

Descriptivism recognizes both Standard and Non-Standard English, while prescriptivism only views standard English as correct. Prescriptivism is commonly used in formal environments, while descriptivism is more prevalent in studying everyday language use.

Examples of Prescriptivism vs Descriptivism

For instance, a prescriptivist may deem the use of a double negative, such as "There's never nothing to do," as grammatically incorrect, while a descriptivist may analyze it as a reflection of the speaker's culture or background.

What Sets Descriptivism and Prescriptivism Apart?

The main difference between descriptivism and prescriptivism lies in their approaches to language. Prescriptivism upholds strict language rules, while descriptivism takes into account the various varieties and values of language.

When to Use Descriptivism and Prescriptivism?

Prescriptivism is typically applied in formal settings such as education and publishing, while descriptivism is used to study language usage in everyday life.

In Conclusion

To summarize, descriptivism and prescriptivism are two opposing linguistic attitudes towards language. While prescriptivism emphasizes strict rules, descriptivism acknowledges the diversity and evolution of language. Both approaches have their merits and are valued in different contexts.