EXAMINING NEW DIALECT FORMATION THROUGH TRUDGILL’S SOCIOLINGUISTIC PRINCIPLES

Abstract

New dialect formation is a critical area of sociolinguistics that examines how distinct language varieties emerge through social, historical, and linguistic processes. This study explores the formation of new dialects through the lens of Trudgill’s (1986, 2004) theory of new dialect formation, focusing on sociolinguistic factors such as geographical influences, social class, immigration, urbanization, technological advancements, and political and historical contexts. By analyzing major English dialects, including Australian, Pakistani, American, and Indian English, this research investigates how dialectal variation arises through stages such as mixing, leveling, inter-dialect development, realization, and focusing. The study highlights how linguistic contact, identity formation, and external influences contribute to the evolution of new dialects over time. The findings provide insights into the mechanisms that shape linguistic diversity, offering implications for sociolinguistic theory, language policy, and linguistic identity.