The 3 levels of Language (and what they consist of)

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. Thisconsisting of a set of symbols and signs that have the function of representing reality.

This is made up 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.

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The different levels of language

Thus, we know that language is made up of different levels. The levels, in turn, are the different records that are used to speak or to write; These are adapted to the circumstances of the environment, the sender and / or the receiver. That is, we will not speak the same if the context is popular, if it is formal, informal, vulgar, cultured or colloquial; thus, we adapt to the environment and 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 with our recipient or addressee. In addition, they are also related 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, also including elements of another level, depending on the situation you are in. That is, although as a general rule one or the other level is used, two or more can be used at the same time (although normally one of them predominates).

Now, we are going to know what the 3 levels of language consist of:

1. Substandard level

The first of the language levels, the substandard level, is characterized by the issuer not particularly interested in using words neatly and correctly. This level is formed, in turn, by two sublevels:

1.1 Popular language

Popular language (or popular language) is characterized by being very colloquial. It is used by people in their day to day when they are in everyday and informal environments. Approximately about 2,000 words they are part of this sublevel of language (these being words of common use); to these 2,000 words are added 5,000 that are less used but generally understood by everyone.

What characteristics does popular language present? It is based on a wide use of adjectives. In addition, it is considered a language that uses many exaggerated expressions and metaphors (for example “it is more Long than a day without bread ”), and that emphasizes the expression of imprecise amounts (for example“ many ”).

On the other hand, it is typical that when we use popular language, we use incomplete sentences (for example "if she only knew ..."). In addition, it is characterized by being a language rich in proverbs and sayings.

Finally, in popular language the appellative (or conative) function of language predominates, where the sender seeks the reaction of the receiver through what he is explaining.

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1.2. Vulgar language

The second sublevel of the sub-standard registration language is vulgar language. It is a very informal type of language, especially used by people with a low educational level. It is characterized by having a 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, it is quite limiting in this sense. Use mostly slang 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; fillers are also used (words or expressions that we constantly repeat when we are nervous, like a “tic”), incorrect, mispronounced or incomplete words, vulgarisms and barbarisms, etc.

In addition, when we speak in vulgar language, we frequently invert the 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 presents errors of all kinds (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.). Furthermore, it is considered the correct language of a certain territory; namely, is the correct language "as a rule", the local benchmark. Writing it or speaking it in another way is considered to be making a language error at the formal level.

Colloquial language

The standard tier has a single “sublevel”; colloquial language. But what are its characteristics? It is characterized by being used in trusted, informal environments (although it is more correct than level 1, of course).

It is, therefore, a correct but close language; It is the most widely spoken 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 that admits certain errors or inaccuracies (especially in its oral form). It can include repetitions, use of augmentatives and diminutives (also derogatory words), interjections, set phrases, etc.

People who use it can easily improvise through colloquial language (and they often do); in addition, it is characterized by having many affective expressions.

3. Super standard level

The next of the language levels is the super standard level. The super standard level is rare (that is, it is spoken by “few” people or infrequently). In turn, this level is divided into three sublevels:

3.1. Cult language

The cultured language is spoken very cultured and well educated people (with a high educational level). In this type of language, grammatical and phonetic rules are highly respected. Its degree of formality is high. It is used, for example, in conferences, master classes, courses, intellectual circles, etc.

Why is it characterized? For being a language very rich in terms of vocabulary, for being very precise, for ordering ideas very clearly and logically, etc. Cultisms abound in it, that is, words in Greek or Latin. The syntax and grammar are good. If used orally, pronunciation is usually impeccable and intonation moderate.

3.2. Scientific-technical language

This type of language is used to specific fields of study or work, especially related to science, culture and technology. This type of language is shared by certain communities, practically exclusively (however, some of its words can be popularized).

What are their characteristics? Consists in a very precise and objective language, with a logical order. In addition, it is accompanied by its own symbol system. Use acronyms, technical words, and anglicisms. The language function that predominates in scientific-technical language is the referential or representative function (which focuses on transmitting information and making reality known).

Bibliographic references

• Belinchón, M., Riviere, A. and Igoa, J.M. (1992). Language psychology, research and theory. Trotta. Madrid.

• Escandell, M.V. (coord ..). 2009. The human language. Madrid: Editorial Universitaria Ramón Areces-UNED.

• Martín, M. and Siguán, M. (1991). Communication and language. Alhambra. Madrid. (Volume IV of Mayor y Pinillos: Treatise on General Psychology).