LANGUAGE AND IDENTITY
Abstract
Language is not just a tool for communication; it is deeply intertwined with both
individual and collective identities. The relationship between language and identity is
multi-layered, evolving, and culturally significant, encompassing elements of personal
self-expression, social roles, and cultural belonging. It serves as a mirror to the
experiences, values, and beliefs of individuals, while also marking the boundaries
between different groups, creating distinctions based on ethnicity, nationality, and
social class. From a sociolinguistic perspective, language plays a fundamental role in
shaping how people view themselves and how they are perceived by others.
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