Linguistic Prescription
Linguistic prescription refers to the practice of establishing rules and guidelines for how a language should be used. This approach often involves setting standards for grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation, aiming to promote a specific form of the language that is considered "correct" or "proper." Linguistic prescriptivists believe that adhering to these rules helps maintain clarity and consistency in communication.
In contrast to linguistic description, which observes and analyzes how language is actually used by speakers, linguistic prescription focuses on enforcing norms. This can include recommendations from grammar books, style guides, and educational institutions, influencing how language is taught and perceived in society.