“Regional language”, “patois” and “dialect” in France: three related notions

Abstract

Terms denoting minorities languages are analyzed. The notions of “regional language”, “patois” and “dialect” are compared. The notion of “patois” which has a negative shade of meaning was used in France since XVI century for denoting historical forms of Romance languages. This denotation spread widely and was in general use until XX century when it was changed by the notion of “regional language”. The notion of “regional language” became official and not only embodied semantic components of the word “patois” but became connected with local dialects. The evolution of notions denoting language status is considered. The conclusions as to how this evolution may influence further language development are drawn.