Social and Functional Language Varieties in Slovenian Linguistics

Abstract

Characteristics of social and functional forms of a language are defined in Slovenian linguistics by Jože Toporisic’s Slovenska slovnica (Slovenian Grammar). However, today rapid social changes and modified perspectives on communication in the broadest sense demand quick adaptation of a language regardless of functional or social form. This article therefore compares Toporisic’s definitions in a selected speech situation to more contemporary findings by other linguists, and it considers suitable modifications dictated by contemporary use.