THE PHENOMENON OF DIGLOSSIA IN MODERN LINGUISTICS

Abstract

The phenomenon of diglossia has become one of the central subjects of modern linguistics, especially in the study of multilingual societies and sociolinguistic dynamics. Diglossia refers to the functional distribution of two varieties of the same language within a single speech community, where one variety is considered “high” and prestigious, while the other is “low,” used for everyday communication. In contemporary linguistic research, diglossia is examined not only as a structural or functional distinction but also as a complex socio-cultural, psychological, and political phenomenon. Modern scholars explore how diglossia influences identity formation, educational policy, language attitudes, mass media usage, and digital communication. This article discusses the evolution of the concept of diglossia from classical interpretations by Charles Ferguson to expanded frameworks that include polyglossia, code-switching, translanguaging, and the impact of globalization. It highlights contemporary cases such as Arabic-speaking countries, Switzerland, Haiti, and post-Soviet states, showing how diglossia remains a living and dynamic linguistic reality. Special attention is given to the challenges that diglossic environments create for language planning, literacy development, and educational practices. Through analysis of current research, the article demonstrates that diglossia serves as a reflective mirror of social hierarchy, cultural continuity, and linguistic change, providing valuable insight into how languages evolve and adapt in the 21st century.