Govur University Logo
--> --> --> -->
...

What term describes the range of language varieties existing between a creole and its lexifier language?



The term that describes the range of language varieties existing between a creole and its lexifier language is a post-creole continuum. A lexifier language is the dominant language that provides most of the vocabulary for the pidgin or creole. After a creole develops, it often exists alongside the lexifier language, leading to a spectrum of language varieties. At one end of the continuum, there is the basilect, which is the creole variety that is most distinct from the lexifier. At the other end is the acrolect, which is the variety closest to the lexifier. In between is the mesolect, representing intermediate varieties. This continuum reflects ongoing language contact and the influence of the lexifier on the creole over time, resulting in a range of language forms with varying degrees of similarity to the lexifier.