Language And Identity

• Standard English: Most prestige and usually used in written text. It has a formal register and is classed as the language of power. Expect to see standard English in professions as it signifies status. Standard English isn't expected to be used in professions such as builders and postman. It can suggest someone's class. 

• Slang: Used in informal situations. Used more around friends and less around the work place and when talking to new people. 

• Dialect: Lexical features or variations of grammar. It is words not accent for example in Bristol it will be the 'err' at the end of a word but the choice of word such as 'gert lush.'

• Taboo: Offensive lexical choices. Tends to be used in social situations with friends. Can be seen as normal when used in certain context but not in others. 

• Technology influenced words: Tweets, texts and instant messenger heavily influence peoples language choice. 

• Neologisms: Coinage-new words. New words are constantly entering peoples everyday language.

• Occupational register: Jargon which is based on a shared knowledge of the job or situation. 

• Received pronunciation: The accent which is used to teach English and is also referred to as the language of power. People which hold authority tend to have this such as bankers, MPs and newsreaders. 

• Regional accent: Pronouncing words depending on where you live or where you come from.