Keywords:
Geographical identity, Toponymy, Language, Cultural heritage, Place names, Sociolinguistics, Identity formation, Statistical analysis
Abstract
Language is one of the key carriers of cultural memory and social meaning and a key driver of geographical identity. The article investigates the intersection of language and geographical identity through the lens of toponymy—place name studies. Based on historical, sociolinguistic, and statistical analysis, the research examines the role of language in the constitution of place names and, in proxy, regional identities. The research utilized a mixed-method approach, involving qualitative review of the literature and quantitative survey response analysis of residents’ attitudes toward place names in their locales. Findings reveal linguistic attributes incorporated within toponyms are key drivers in constituting geographical identity and upholding cultural memory. The implications of such findings have practical effects on policy-making, school systems, and community planning, ultimately to conclude that identification and preservation of language heritage in geography can enhance regional integration and social sustainability.
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How to cite
Prachi Verma (2015). Role of Language in Geographical Identity and Toponymy. International Journal of Research in All Subjects in Multi Languages, 3(12), 31-37.
Licence
This article is open access, published under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Copyright remains with the authors.
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