What term is used to describe the everyday speech of a particular country or region, often involving nonstandard usage?

The term "vernacular" refers to the everyday speech that is characteristic of a specific country or region, typically encompassing the informal language and expressions used by people in casual conversation. Vernacular language includes colloquialisms, regional slang, and idiomatic expressions that may differ significantly from the formal or standard versions of a language.

This term is particularly important in literary criticism as it highlights the diversity of language and cultural identity. In literature, the use of vernacular can add authenticity to characters and settings, allowing for a more genuine representation of the speech patterns and cultural nuances of a specific group. It emphasizes the features of language that are shaped by local customs and traditions, showcasing the richness of everyday communication as it differs from more formal registers.

In contrast, standard English refers to the grammatically correct form of the language taught in schools and used in professional contexts, while pidgin denotes a simplified form of language that develops as a means of communication between speakers of different languages. Dialect, while similar to vernacular, often refers to a specific form of language that includes distinct grammatical and vocabulary variations within a particular region or social group. Thus, "vernacular" accurately captures the essence of everyday speech as it exists within a cultural and regional framework.