Unraveling the Enigma of 'Parlance': Definitions, Usage, and Etymology

The word 'parlance' has a rich history and multifaceted meaning within different linguistic and social contexts. It reflects the unique ways in which different groups use language to convey specific concepts and meanings. This article delves into the definition, usage, and etymology of 'parlance,' providing a comprehensive understanding of this intriguing term.

Definition of Parlance

Parlance can be defined as 'a way of speaking or using words, especially one common to a particular social or professional group.' This definition captures the essence of parlance, which is a style of language or a dialect particular to a specific community or profession. For instance, legal parlance refers to the specialized terminology used by lawyers and judges, while medical parlance encompasses the specific medical jargon used by healthcare professionals.

Usage and Example Sentences

The term 'parlance' is often used in a variety of contexts to describe the distinct vocabulary and expressions used within a community. Here are some example sentences showcasing different usages:

Legal parlance includes terms like 'plaintiff,' 'defendant,' and 'verdict.' Medical parlance might include words such as 'hemoglobin,' 'sterilization,' and 'pathology.' Parlance in the mob often includes slang terms like 'broad,' meaning a girl or woman.

Historical and Etymological Background

The term 'parlance' entered Middle English during the late 15th century, making its way from Anglo-Norman French. The word 'parlance' comes from the Old French 'parlance' meaning 'speech' or 'way of speaking.' This evolution began in the following ways:

Etymology

Etymologically, 'parlance' is derived from the Anglo-Norman French word 'parlance,' which itself evolved from the Old French 'parlance' meaning 'speech' or 'way of speaking.' Over time, it carried the nuance of 'a style of using words' specific to a particular social or professional group.

Usage in Historical Context

Historically, 'parlance' is mentioned in works like Dale Carnegie's 1936 book, 'How to Win Friends and Influence People,' where it is used to describe the way certain groups communicate. Carnegie provides an example, 'In the parlance of newspaper men I had a scoop.' Such usage indicates the versatility and adaptability of the term across different contexts and eras.

Linguistic Terminology and Related Words

'Parlance' is closely related to other terms that describe specialized vocabularies and terminologies. Notable among these are:

1. Jargon

Jargon refers to specialized language used in a particular field. Like parlance, it is not restricted to a single context but can be applied to various professional or social groups. For example, the jargon used in technical support or computer science would be different from the jargon used in culinary arts.

2. Patois

Patois is a variant of a language that is distinct from the standard version and is used by a particular group or community. It is often characterized by different vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation from the more formal or standard language. For instance, Haitian Creole is a patois that has elements from French, Spanish, and African languages.

3. Lingo and Vougue

Lingo often refers to the informal, colloquial language of a particular group, such as a cultural or ethnic subgroup. 'Vogue' is another related term that refers to the popular or fashionable term or phrase of the time. Both lingo and voguish words can reflect the changing linguistic landscape of a society.

Conclusion

The term 'parlance' encapsulates the unique and specific language styles employed by different groups of people. Whether it's legal, medical, or slang terms, the concept of parlance highlights the diversity of linguistic expression. Understanding and appreciating these different forms of parlance can enrich our communication and help us navigate various social and professional environments more effectively.