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Vernacular Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ—ฃ๏ธ
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vernacular

[vษ™หˆnรฆkjสŠlษ™r ]

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?

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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.

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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?

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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.

  • Itโ€™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.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'vernacular'

Main points about word origin

  • 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 slavesโ€™ languages, highlighting its roots in commonplace communication.

The word 'vernacular' originated in the mid-17th century from the Latin word 'vernaculus', meaning 'domestic' or 'native'. It was initially used to describe the language spoken by the common people in a specific region. Over time, the term expanded to include architectural styles that are indigenous to a particular area. Today, 'vernacular' is widely used to refer to everyday language or dialects that are characteristic of a region or community.

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.