African American Vernacular English

Definition

African American Vernacular English (AAVE) is a distinctive dialect of English primarily spoken by African Americans, characterized by unique grammatical, vocabulary, and pronunciation features. AAVE reflects the rich cultural history and identity of its speakers, incorporating influences from various linguistic sources including African languages, Southern American English, and urban slang.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. AAVE is often considered a legitimate dialect with its own grammatical rules and vocabulary, rather than simply incorrect or poor English.
2. Features of AAVE include the use of double negatives, the absence of the copula (e.g., 'He going' instead of 'He is going'), and specific pronunciation patterns.
3. AAVE has deep historical roots in the African American experience, evolving from the linguistic practices of enslaved Africans who were exposed to English during and after slavery.
4. Sociolinguistic research shows that AAVE is influenced by both African languages and other English dialects, particularly those found in the Southern United States.
5. The use of AAVE can be a source of identity and solidarity among speakers, but it can also lead to stigma and misconceptions about intelligence and education.

Review Questions

• How does AAVE function as a legitimate dialect with its own unique grammatical structures?
  • AAVE functions as a legitimate dialect by possessing distinct grammatical rules that differentiate it from Standard English. For example, AAVE employs double negatives for emphasis, such as 'I ain't got no money,' which reflects a systematic rule rather than error. Additionally, AAVE often omits the copula in sentences, as in 'She smart' instead of 'She is smart.' These grammatical features demonstrate that AAVE is not just informal speech but a complex system with its own internal logic.
• Discuss the social implications of using AAVE in different contexts and how it relates to identity among speakers.
  • Using AAVE can have significant social implications, particularly in how speakers are perceived in various contexts. In predominantly African American communities, AAVE serves as an important marker of identity and cultural heritage. However, when used in predominantly white or formal settings, speakers may face prejudice or be judged based on stereotypes associated with AAVE. This can lead to code-switching, where individuals adjust their speech to fit the expectations of their audience. The ability to navigate between AAVE and Standard English reflects both cultural pride and the challenges of societal acceptance.
• Evaluate how the stigmatization of AAVE affects educational opportunities for speakers and perpetuates systemic inequalities.
  • The stigmatization of AAVE significantly impacts educational opportunities for its speakers by fostering biases that can influence teacher expectations and student assessments. Many educators may mistakenly view AAVE as a sign of lower intelligence or lack of education, which can lead to lower academic expectations for students who use it. This discrimination not only undermines the students’ self-esteem but also perpetuates systemic inequalities in education. By failing to recognize AAVE as a legitimate dialect with its own rules, educational institutions can create barriers that hinder African American students' academic success and social mobility.

Related terms

Code-switching: The practice of alternating between two or more languages or dialects within a conversation or discourse, often used by bilingual speakers to adapt to different social contexts.

Dialect:

A particular form of a language that is specific to a region or social group, distinguished by its own grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.

Sociolect: A variety of language used by a particular social class or group, often reflecting the social identities and cultural norms of its speakers.