Ορισμός και Σημασία του "dialect cluster"

What is a "dialect cluster"?

A dialect cluster is a group of related dialects that share similar features, such as vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, making them mutually intelligible to some extent. These dialects often arise from a common language and can be found in a specific geographic area or among particular social groups. While members of a dialect cluster may recognize their differences, they also understand and communicate with one another due to the shared characteristics of their speech. Dialect clusters highlight the diversity within a language and illustrate how linguistic variations can develop while remaining connected.