Is Our Dialect in Danger?
An immediate association of the North East is a distinct regional accent which reflects the region’s rich and complex history. However, some linguistic experts are suggesting that the famous ‘Northern’ accent (a gross overgeneralization) may be in the decline.
So, can this really be true? Well, an investigation from Cambridge university does suggest that within as little as 45 years our beloved accent will be close to death, in the face of growing domination of Southern annunciation.
Although this may be a terrifying prospect, I feel as though it may be an unnecessary doomsday call. Ask any local of the North East and they’ll tell you just how important and prevalent these accents still are. When asking a local of Upper Teesdale, he had this to say;
‘I think this idea is too dramatic, overall the difference can still be made between a West-Country accent and a Geordie - as far as I’m concerned we’re probably safe’
(J. T. - Upper Teesdale Local)
This ominous prognosis of linguistic death may strike fear into the hearts of some scholars, but accents are an essential part of Northern identity - and I don’t see them going anywhere anytime soon.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here