Free variation is the process of variation in a language where two or more forms of expression are used interchangeably with no change in meaning. It is a phenomenon that exists in all languages, but it is most commonly found in spoken language. The forms used in free variation are typically variants of the same word or phrase, and they are used to convey the same meaning.
Free variation occurs when two or more forms of expression can be used interchangeably without changing the meaning of the overall statement. The forms used in free variation are typically variants of the same word or phrase, and they are used to convey the same meaning. For example, the sentences “He’s going to the store” and “He’s gonna go to the store” both convey the same meaning. Similarly, “going to the store” and “gonna go to the store” are also free variations.
Free variation can also be seen in the use of regional dialects. For example, in some parts of the United States the phrase “y’all” is used instead of “you all” to refer to a group of people. Similarly, in some parts of the United Kingdom the phrase “oi” is used instead of “hey,” and in the south of England the phrase “you lot” is used instead of “you all.”
Free variation is an important phenomenon in language, as it allows speakers to use different forms of expression to express the same meaning. It also allows speakers to express themselves more creatively and to be more precise in their communication.
For further reading, see:
Lam, B. (2019). The Functions of Free Variation: A Cross-Linguistic Perspective. Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Linguistics. https://oxfordre.com/linguistics/view/10.1093/acrefore/9780199384655.001.0001/acrefore-9780199384655-e-8
Mufwene, S. S. (2015). Free variation. In M. Van Oostendorp & C. J. Ewen (Eds.), Encyclopedia of language and linguistics (pp. 143-148). Amsterdam: Elsevier.
Williams, G. (2016). Free Variation in Language. In C. A. Chapelle (Ed.), The Encyclopedia of Applied Linguistics (pp. 1-6). Wiley-Blackwell.