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standard language

the generally accepted version of a language that is associated with formal and official contexts and with high-status users. Typically, it will be the version used in mainstream media and taught to schoolchildren and second-language learners. Most languages have a number of nonstandard varieties that differ from the standard language in pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar.

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Psychology term of the day

February 23rd 2025

dogmatism

dogmatism

n.

1. the tendency to act in a blindly certain, assertive, and authoritative manner in accordance with a strongly held set of beliefs.

2. a personality trait characterized by this tendency. The belief system of such an individual is strongly held and resistant to change. Nevertheless, it often contains elements that are isolated from one another and thus may contradict one another. See Rokeach Dogmatism Scale. [first proposed by U.S. psychologist Milton Rokeach (1918–1988)] —dogmatic adj.