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isogloss

linguistics
Also known as: heterogloss

Quick Summary

An isogloss is a boundary line on a map that separates regions with different linguistic features. These features can include differences in grammar, vocabulary, or pronunciation, which collectively define a dialect.12

Linguists use isoglosses to map out dialectal variations within a language. When multiple isoglosses cluster together, they can form a bundle of isoglosses, indicating a more significant linguistic divide between regions. These boundaries help illustrate how languages evolve and diversify across geographical areas.2

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. isogloss
  2. dialect

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