Language Divergence and Convergence

==Language Divergence==- When a language breaks into two or more dialects or distinct languages due to lack of interaction after migration or separation

Within dialects are sub dialects, for example people in the South of the US vs New York

==Language Convergence==- Two or more languages become similar or blend together due to consistent interaction. Sometimes new languages result from this.

Spanish and Arabic are from different language families, but are similar. This is due to the Arabian peninsula being occupied by Arabs and Muslims between 711 and 1492. This also happened with Swahili due to frequent trade.

Language convergence can result in Pidgin an Creole languages

• They are language categories
• Both are new languages when speakers of different languages interact and have a need to communicate
• Pidgin are non-native lingua francas, and don’t have native speakers
• While Creole have native speakers
• ==Pidgin languages arise suddenly due to a need for basic communication, tends to be a very basic language that borrows some vocab from another (usually dominant) language, but keeps grammatical structure of the native==
• When Pidgins are first developed, they are usually restricted. Some pidgins become extended and are used in all situations.
• ==Creole languages usually start as pidgin languages and becomes a creole when people adapt the language and start to pass it on generationally. This language gets more complex as this occurs.==
• Most creoles are based on English, French, or Spanish. Often will sound like a really poor version of a language.