A sociolect is a variety of language used by a specific social group. This can include differences in vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar that set one group apart from others. For example, teenagers might use slang that older generations don’t understand, creating a unique way of communicating within their peer group. These language variations can reflect factors like age, occupation, or social class. For instance, professionals in the medical field may use technical terms that are unfamiliar to those outside their profession. Understanding sociolects helps us appreciate the diversity of language and how it shapes our identities within different communities.