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Locale Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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locale

[หˆlษ™สŠkษ‘หl ]

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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'locale'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'locale' originated from the Latin word 'locฤlis' which means 'pertaining to a place'. Over time, it evolved to refer to a specific geographical area or a set of parameters defining cultural preferences. In computing, the term 'locale' became associated with language and regional settings, reflecting the user's preferences. The concept of locale has been essential in both linguistic and technological contexts, highlighting the importance of cultural specificity and customization.

See also: local, locales, localism, locality, localization, localize, localized, locals.

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.