The Challenge of Dialects Across Wikipedia
Wikipedia has over 300 language editions, each with its own way of dealing with dialects and regional variations. For instance, the Catalan Wikipedia has long debated whether Valencian should be considered a separate language or a dialect of Catalan. This isn't just about words-it's tied to politics, identity, and how knowledge is shared globally. Understanding how Wikipedia dialects are handled across language editions is key to contributing effectively.
How Language Editions Handle Variation
Each language edition sets its own rules based on community consensus. Some editions embrace dialects openly, while others stick strictly to a standard form. For example, the German Wikipedia allows regional terms like "Bratwurst" in articles about Bavarian cuisine, but the main language remains Standard German. Meanwhile, the Arabic Wikipedia uses Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) as its primary language but permits dialect-specific terms in certain contexts with clear explanations. The key is balancing linguistic accuracy with accessibility for speakers of different dialects.
Real-World Examples: Catalan, Arabic, and German
| Language Edition | Primary Language | Dialect Handling |
|---|---|---|
| Catalan Wikipedia | Catalan | Valencian terms allowed but marked; guidelines specify usage |
| Arabic Wikipedia | Modern Standard Arabic | MSA standard; dialects used in specific contexts with explanations |
| German Wikipedia | Standard German | Separate Swiss German edition; regional terms allowed in main edition |
The Catalan Wikipedia has a contentious policy on Valencian. Some editors argue Valencian is a distinct language, while others see it as a dialect. The community has established guidelines that allow Valencian terms but require them to be clearly marked and used consistently. In contrast, Arabic Wikipedia sticks to MSA as the main language but includes dialects like Egyptian Arabic in articles about local culture, with explanations to ensure clarity. The German Wikipedia even has a separate Swiss German edition (swh), which operates independently for articles in Swiss German, while the main German edition uses Standard German with regional terms when appropriate.
Community Consensus: The Heart of the Process
When editors disagree on dialect usage, discussions happen on talk pages. For example, in the Catalan Wikipedia, editors debate whether to use "valencià" or "català" for the language name. These discussions often reference existing policies or seek input from linguists. The community consensus approach ensures that decisions reflect the views of active contributors. In the Arabic Wikipedia, editors use talk pages to decide when to include dialect-specific terms, often citing reliable sources. This collaborative process helps maintain accuracy and neutrality, even when dealing with sensitive topics.
Political and Cultural Tensions
Dialect handling isn't just linguistic-it's political. The Catalan-Valencian debate is deeply tied to regional identity. Valencian nationalists often push for separate recognition, while others view it as part of Catalan. This has led to edit wars on Wikipedia, with some editors reverting changes they see as biased. Similarly, in the case of Serbian and Croatian, editors disagree on whether they should be merged into one edition or kept separate. These tensions highlight how language and identity intersect, making Wikipedia a battleground for cultural recognition.
What Contributors Should Know
If you're editing a language edition, check local guidelines first. For example, the Arabic Wikipedia's dialect policy states MSA is preferred, but dialects can be used with explanations. When in doubt, ask on the article's talk page. Avoid unilateral changes; consensus is key. Also, be aware of regional sensitivities. In the German Wikipedia, using "Kartoffel" instead of "Patate" might be fine for a general article, but in a Swiss context, "Kartoffel" is more common. Knowing the local norms helps avoid unnecessary conflicts.
Why This Matters for Global Knowledge
Handling dialects correctly makes Wikipedia more inclusive. A speaker of a regional dialect can find information in terms they recognize, which helps preserve linguistic diversity. For example, the Swiss German edition ensures Swiss-specific terms are accurately represented, making Wikipedia useful for Swiss residents. Similarly, including Egyptian Arabic terms in Arabic Wikipedia articles about Egyptian culture makes the content more accessible to Egyptians. This approach supports Wikipedia's mission to share knowledge globally while respecting local contexts.
How does Wikipedia decide which dialects to include in a language edition?
It depends on community consensus. Editors discuss on talk pages and refer to existing policies. For example, the Catalan Wikipedia has specific guidelines about Valencian terms, while Arabic Wikipedia allows dialects in certain contexts with explanations.
Are there official policies for handling dialects on Wikipedia?
Yes, each language edition has its own policies. For instance, the German Wikipedia has guidelines on regional terms, and the Arabic Wikipedia has a dialect policy. These are created by editors and reflect the community's consensus.
What happens when editors disagree on dialect usage?
Disputes are resolved through discussion on the article's talk page. Editors cite policies and sources. If consensus can't be reached, the issue may be escalated to community-wide discussions or mediation.
Can a dialect have its own Wikipedia edition?
Yes. For example, Swiss German has its own edition (swh), separate from the main German Wikipedia. This allows Swiss German speakers to contribute in their dialect without affecting other editions.
How do political tensions affect dialect handling on Wikipedia?
Political views can influence debates. For example, the Catalan-Valencian dispute has led to edits being reverted based on political leanings. Editors are encouraged to stay neutral and follow policies, but tensions sometimes spill into edits.
