Locale: meaning, definitions and examples

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locale

 

[ˈləʊkɑːl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

language

A particular form of a language that is peculiar to a specific region or social group.

Synonyms

dialect, jargon, vernacular.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
locale

Use when referring to a specific place or location, often with a sense of its unique cultural or geographical characteristics.

  • The restaurant is situated in a tranquil locale on the outskirts of the city.
  • The movie is set in a small, picturesque locale in the French countryside.
dialect

Use when talking about a particular form of a language that is specific to a region or social group.

  • She speaks a dialect that is common in the southern part of the country.
  • The novel is written in a regional dialect, giving it an authentic feel.
vernacular

Use when referring to the language or dialect spoken by the ordinary people in a particular country or region. It can also mean everyday language or slang.

  • The book is written in the vernacular, making it accessible to a broader audience.
  • He prefers to use the local vernacular when talking with his neighbors.
jargon

Use when referring to specialized language used by a particular profession or group. This term often has a negative connotation when used to suggest exclusivity or complexity.

  • Medical professionals often use complex jargon that can be confusing for patients.
  • The tech industry is full of jargon that is difficult for outsiders to understand.

Examples of usage

  • The French locale of Quebec
  • The local dialect is slowly disappearing.
  • Each region has its own unique locale.
Context #2 | Noun

computing

A set of parameters that defines the user's language, region, and cultural preferences.

Synonyms

configuration, preferences, settings.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
locale

Use when referring to a specific place or environment, often in terms of geographical location or cultural context.

  • The festival's locale is known for its rich history and beautiful scenery.
  • This book transports readers to a different locale each chapter.
settings

Use when referring to options or configurations within a system, device, or environment which can be adjusted or customized.

  • Go to the settings to change your privacy options.
  • He spent hours tweaking the settings on his new camera.
preferences

Use when referring to personal choices, likes, or priorities in a particular context. It can relate to software or general daily choices.

  • You can change your language preferences in the settings menu.
  • Her food preferences have changed since she became vegan.
configuration

Use when referring to the arrangement or setup of parts or elements in a particular form, often in technical or system settings.

  • Make sure to check the router's configuration before setting up the network.
  • The new software allows for more flexible configuration of user profiles.

Examples of usage

  • The software uses the locale settings to display dates and currency.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'locale' comes from the Latin word 'localis', meaning 'of a place', showing its deep roots in language.
  • It has been commonly used in English since the late 19th century, particularly in literature and geography.
  • In French, 'local' is similar and also means belonging to a particular place, further connecting the languages.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, local customs and traditions define a 'locale', influencing art, food, and community events.
  • Film and literature often use distinct locales to enhance storytelling, making places feel like characters in their own right.
  • The concept of 'locale' is crucial in tourism, where visitors seek authentic experiences tied to local histories and environments.

Technology

  • In software development, a 'locale' refers to the settings that determine language, region formats, and preferences for a user interface.
  • Geolocation services use locale data to provide tailored content to users based on their physical location, enhancing user experience.
  • Mobile apps often adjust their functionality based on locale settings, ensuring relevance and usability for diverse audiences.

Psychology

  • The sense of place, linked to 'locale', plays a significant role in personal identity and community belonging.
  • Studies show that familiar locales can evoke strong memories and emotional responses, influencing well-being.
  • Cognitive mapping involves how people perceive and navigate their locale, impacting how we interact with our surroundings.

Literature

  • Authors frequently use locale to set the atmosphere of a story, adding depth and context to characters' experiences.
  • Regional dialects and unique place names enrich narratives, helping readers visualize and connect with different locales.
  • Fictional locales can serve as allegories, representing broader themes such as conflict, harmony, or exploration.

Translations

Translations of the word "locale" in other languages:

🇵🇹 local

🇮🇳 स्थान

🇩🇪 Ort

🇮🇩 lokasi

🇺🇦 місце

🇵🇱 miejsce

🇯🇵 場所 (ばしょ)

🇫🇷 lieu

🇪🇸 lugar

🇹🇷 yer

🇰🇷 장소

🇸🇦 مكان

🇨🇿 místo

🇸🇰 miesto

🇨🇳 地点 (dìdiǎn)

🇸🇮 mesto

🇮🇸 staður

🇰🇿 орын

🇬🇪 ადგილი

🇦🇿 yer

🇲🇽 lugar

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,537, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.