What is defined as a complete system of verbal communication associated with specific regions or social groups?

The term "dialect" refers to a complete system of verbal communication that encompasses specific linguistic features, vocabulary, and grammar used by particular regions or social groups. Dialects can include variations in pronunciation, grammar, and word choice, and are often influenced by geographic, cultural, and social factors. This means that within a larger language, various dialects may emerge, shaped by the identity and experiences of the speakers in those communities.

For instance, speakers of English from different regions—such as the American South, the Midwest, or New England—may use distinct dialects, which exhibit variations in terms of pronunciation, vocabulary, and even some grammatical structures. Therefore, identifying these variations as dialects highlights their role as integral forms of communication that reflect the identity and culture of the groups involved.

In contrast, the other options refer to specific aspects of language or communication. Accent, for example, focuses on pronunciation but doesn’t encompass the full range of grammatical and lexical features found in dialects. Language denotes a broader system of communication that can include multiple dialects. Sociolect specifically refers to variations of language used by different social classes or groups, which is more narrow than the geographical and cultural scope covered by dialect. Hence, "dialect" is