In language, there exists a situation characterized by two language codes which are distinct, bearing a clear separation in functionality, a situation described as diglossia. In different diaglossic situations, there is the prevalent characteristic in which there exists a high variety of language and a low variety. These two varieties of language have specialized functions and divergent views from people who are knowledgeable of both varieties. Diaglossia is a social and linguistic phenomenon that is persistent over time rather than ephemeral.
In a diaglossic situation, speakers use language differently. In fact, one of the prime characteristics of diglossia is the separation of the two varieties in terms of function. In diglossia the overlapping of functions in the use of the varieties is absent owing to their status difference. The high varieties are predominantly used in formal situations such the delivery of lectures, fine literature and newspaper editorials. On the other hand, the low varieties are employed in less formal settings such as conversations with acquaintances and instructing low-prestige occupation workers. It is unlikely for the high variety to be used in situations requiring the use of low variety and vice versa.
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Social and cultural interactions play an important role in the development and use diglossic languages. Diglossia is likely to come into existence as a result of a significant body of literature in a language with close relation to a community’s natural language. Diglossia is also likely to develop in the face of limited literacy in which literacy is limited to a minute elite. The sociocultural perceptions of the two varieties differ, with the high variety deemed prestigious and powerful, while the low variety is less prestigious and may be so to the extent that despite its frequent use, people may deny knowing it.
The modes of gaining knowledge of the high and low varieties of language differ. While the high variety is taught, the low variety is learnt. The home language that children learn and which is used in normal conversations is the low variety. This language is simply learnt through everyday interactions with members of the society. The high variety, on the other hand, is taught in formal settings such as schools or in religious and cultural indoctrination settings. It is possible for people to learn both varieties at the same time but most people never learn the high variety. Simply stated, no one learns the high variety as their first language.
Diaglossia exists in numerous countries around the world. In Haiti for instance, there exists standard French regarded as the high variety, and Haiti Creole regarded as the low variety. In Switzerland, Standard German is considered the high variety while Swiss German is deemed to be the low variety. Common in the diglossic situation in these two countries is that the high and low varieties of coexisted for long periods of time.
