Vernacular: meaning, definitions and examples

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vernacular

[vəˈnækjʊlər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

everyday language

The language or dialect spoken by the ordinary people in a particular country or region.

Synonyms

colloquial language, everyday speech, local language.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
vernacular	Similarly to 'vernacular' (above), this term refers to the natural language spoken by ordinary people. It often carries a cultural or regional significance. The poet chose to write in the vernacular to capture the true essence of the people.
colloquial language	Refers to informal language used in everyday conversation. It includes slang and idioms that may not be found in formal writing. The book is written in colloquial language, making it easy for teenagers to relate to it.
everyday speech	Used to describe the common language that people use in daily communication with family and friends. It focuses on the simplicity and regularity of the language. Her everyday speech is quite different from the formal tone she uses in her lectures.
local language	Refers to the specific language or dialect spoken in a particular geographic region. This term is often used when emphasizing the unique linguistic characteristics of a small area. Learning the local language can help travelers connect more deeply with the community.

Examples of usage

The poem captures the beauty of the vernacular spoken by the locals.
She preferred using vernacular expressions in her writing.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

architecture

The style of architecture that is indigenous to a specific time and place.

Synonyms

indigenous architecture, local style, traditional design.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
vernacular	Used to describe architecture or styles that are native to a specific region using local materials and traditional methods. Often not designed by professional architects. The village is full of vernacular buildings made of stone and wood. Vernacular architecture reflects the cultural and environmental conditions of its location.
indigenous architecture	Used to describe buildings and structures designed and constructed by native or indigenous people, often with deep cultural and spiritual significance. Indigenous architecture integrates the environment and cultural traditions beautifully. The museum exhibits various forms of indigenous architecture from around the world.
local style	Refers to architectural features or designs that are typical or characteristic of a specific locality, focusing on regional distinctiveness but not necessarily tied strictly to tradition or cultural aspects. The house was renovated in a local style, using materials from the area. Tourists are attracted by the overall charm and local style of the old town.
traditional design	Used to describe architecture or other designs that follow long-established patterns or practices, often passed down through generations, that emphasize historical continuity. The traditional design of the temple includes intricate wood carvings. They chose a traditional design for their new home to maintain the area's historic feel.

Examples of usage

The building's design reflects the vernacular of the region.
The architect incorporated elements of vernacular architecture in the project.

^{Context #3 | Adjective}

ordinary or everyday

Used to describe language or dialect spoken by the common people.

Synonyms

common, everyday, ordinary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
vernacular	Used when referring to the language or dialect spoken by the ordinary people in a particular country or region. She speaks in the vernacular of her hometown, which is different from the standard language taught in schools
common	Used to describe something that is found often or is widespread; sometimes has a negative connotation implying lack of sophistication or refinement. It’s common to see people jogging in the park every morning The material used for the furniture is too common, it lacks uniqueness
ordinary	Describes something that is not special, unique, or different in any way; often neutral or slightly negative in tone. She lives in an ordinary apartment with no luxury features His performance was ordinary, nothing stood out
everyday	Used to describe something that happens or is used regularly; refers to ordinary daily activities. Wearing comfortable shoes is important for everyday activities like walking to work Reading the newspaper is an everyday habit for him

Examples of usage

The vernacular language is often more easily understood than formal speech.
He wrote in a vernacular style to connect with a wider audience.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'vernacular' comes from the Latin word 'vernaculus,' meaning 'native' or 'domestic.'
It originally referred to the language spoken by common people, contrasting with formal languages used in literature and government.
In ancient Rome, 'vernacular' described slaves’ languages, highlighting its roots in commonplace communication.

Linguistics

Linguists study vernacular speech to understand cultural identity and social norms within communities.
The term includes regional dialects, slang, and expressions that may vary significantly even within the same country.
Vernacular languages can often act as a marker of group solidarity, showing where people belong and their shared experiences.

Literature

Many authors, such as Mark Twain, employed vernacular in their writings to give authentic voices to their characters.
This style of writing helps to capture the essence of a culture and make stories relatable to everyday readers.
Plays and poems often use vernacular language to reflect real-life situations and emotions more accurately.

Cultural Significance

Vernacular languages are crucial in preserving local traditions and cultural stories throughout generations.
In many places, the revival of vernacular languages is a movement to reclaim cultural identity and resist globalization's homogenization.
Different dialects can reflect historical migration patterns, social changes, and community resilience.

Sociolinguistics

The study of vernacular speech can reveal insights into power dynamics, status, and class within societies.
Vernacular is often stigmatized compared to standardized languages, highlighting social prejudices about language use.
Code-switching between vernacular and formal language is common among speakers, showcasing linguistic versatility.

Translations

Translations of the word "vernacular" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vernacular

🇮🇳 स्थानीय भाषा

🇩🇪 Mundart

🇮🇩 bahasa daerah

🇺🇦 місцева мова

🇵🇱 język lokalny

🇯🇵 方言

🇫🇷 vernaculaire

🇪🇸 vernáculo

🇹🇷 yerel dil

🇰🇷 토착어

🇸🇦 اللغة الدارجة

🇨🇿 nářečí

🇸🇰 nárečie

🇨🇳 方言

🇸🇮 narečje

🇮🇸 talmál

🇰🇿 жергілікті тіл

🇬🇪 ადგილობრივი ენა

🇦🇿 yerli dil

🇲🇽 vernáculo

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,036, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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11033 slammed
11034 computerized
11035 dormant
11036 vernacular
11037 brine
11038 spike
11039 watered
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