英語によるコミュニケーション : 標準における柔軟性

Abstract

Throughout the years there has been much controversy concerning the question of whether a studard English actually does exist and, if so, how should it be defined? A study of the wide variety of materials published on this issue reveals that the opinions and conclusions are as varied and far-reaching as the topic itself. From this it could be concluded that a standard English does not exist simply because no consensus can be reached on this subject and because, in reality, there are a wide variety of English dialects presently in use. It might be asked whether it would be beneficial or even desiralbe to label and define some form as standard and attempt to spread this "superior" form to all non-native(as well as native) speakers as the only officially accepted form of English. In dealing with these questions this paper suggests that any attempt to define a standard English is essentially futile and that the form English will take is naturally determined by usage and cmmunicability - factors which are beyond control.