Language in context: diaphasic variation

We have seen at the beginning of this course that language changes over time and space, and that it also depends on the background of the speakers, the situation, and the medium that is used.

Let us spend a bit more time understanding diaphasic, or situational, variation. The concept will come in handy when describing the evolution of Italian over the last century. As we said, linguistic messages are influenced by the context in which they occur, i.e. by different communicative situations. Talking to friends at the bar or giving a lecture, writing a text message to a family member or a letter to the management of a company: each of these activities requires the language to be modulated differently.

We can recognise two spheres of diaphasic variation:

1. register variation
2. sub-code variation

Register variation The variation in register depends on the type of relationship between the interlocutors and is related to the relative degree of formality of the communicative situation. Formality is an extrinsic character of the communicative situation, depending on social and cultural factors, but it influences linguistic behaviour: firstly, it has a reflection in the control and accuracy placed on writing or speaking. It should also be noted that, in principle, the degree of formality of a language is higher in written usage, while the registers adopted in orality tend to be more informal.

An illustration of register variation is evident in the selection between tu (you) and lei, with the latter serving as the formal or courtesy pronoun. Tu is employed when addressing individuals with whom one shares familiarity, such as friends, family, and colleagues. On the other hand, lei is utilized in interactions with unfamiliar individuals, formal settings, or when there exists a hierarchical dynamic in the relationship. This hierarchical structure is observed in various scenarios, such as in schools between teachers and students, or in prisons between guards and prisoners. Typically, the convention dictates that the superior party employs tu while the subordinate employs lei.

The choice of register significantly influences all aspects of discourse. In a formal register, expressions such as il prete celebra la messa (the priest celebrates mass) are preferred, while in an informal context, one might use il prete dice messa (the priest says mass). Similarly, when distinguishing between defunto (deceased) and morto (dead), a formal setting would favour the former, whereas an informal conversation might opt for the latter. Register distinctions are also evident in lower registers, where colloquial language and even swear words may be employed. Generic terms like cosa (thing) are characteristic of a more informal, everyday register, underscoring the nuanced impact that register choices have on the tone and formality of communication.

Sub-code variation The variation of sub-codes, on the other hand, is connected to the subject of the discourse: each field of activity and experience with its own sufficient social and cultural characterisation or specialisation has its own sub-code, characterised by a particular technical vocabulary. These sub-codes are called special languages or sectorial languages. They have their own specific sub-code, for example: field cultivation, medicine, meteorology, but also politics, football, music, fashion and clothing, gastronomy, etc.

In a nutshell, context, or the communicative situation, is relevant in language use. How is this reflected in our daily lives? Share this insight in the succeeding steps.