NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

What is the characteristic of a pidgin language?

1. A fully developed language

2. A grammatically simplified mode of communicating

3. A language used only among native speakers

4. A dialect with strong regional variations

The correct answer is: A grammatically simplified mode of communicating

A pidgin language is characterized as a grammatically simplified mode of communicating. This type of language often emerges in contexts where speakers of different native languages need to communicate, typically for trade, work, or social interaction. Pidgins are not fully developed languages; rather, they draw elements from the languages of the people involved but are usually simplified in structure and vocabulary to facilitate easier communication. Pidgin languages develop in situations where there is no common language, and thus speakers may create a new means of communication that is functional, but it lacks the complex grammar and vocabulary of a fully developed language. They are distinct from native languages, as those who use a pidgin often do not speak it as their first language. Rather, pidgins typically arise in multilingual settings and are often utilized by people who are native speakers of different languages. In contrast, fully developed languages possess complex grammatical structures and extensive vocabulary. Additionally, pidgins are not limited to native speakers; they exist specifically to serve as a bridge between speakers of different languages. Lastly, while dialects can have strong regional variations, pidgins are not categorized as dialects since they do not function as native languages themselves.