THE LYRICS ARE WHAT THEY ARE: DIALECTISMS IN MODERN UKRAINIAN SONG
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/2307-1222.2026-62-22Keywords:
vernacular, speech, dialectism, expressiveness, intimacy, dialect, song lyrics, Surzhyk, Ukrainian language, artistic expressionAbstract
The article analyses the features of dialectism in contemporary Ukrainian songs of the 21st century and determines its role in artistic speech. The research focuses on identifying linguistic elements of various Ukrainian dialects in song texts, reflecting the regional peculiarity of the Ukrainian language. The work traces the traditions of using dialect vocabulary in folk creativity and their continuation in contemporary song texts. It has been established that dialectisms can function at various linguistic levels, shaping the colour of speech and enhancing the emotional and stylistic effect. Special attention is given to the analysis of texts by popular Ukrainian performers, in which dialect elements serve to intensify and enhance the expressiveness of song speech, contribute to creating an effect of live communication, and emphasise the regional identity of the speakers. Сonsiders examples of the use of Hutsul, Slobozhanshchyna, and other regional varieties of speech in contemporary songs. It is emphasised that the activation of dialect vocabulary in songs contributes to the popularisation of linguistic diversity and of distinguishing between dialect speech and Surzhyk is outlined, as some texts mix Ukrainian and Russian language elements, which can destabilise the language norm. It is concluded that dialectisms are an important aesthetic and stylistic resource of modern Ukrainian song. Their use in song lyrics contributes to the preservation of cultural heritage, the enhancement of artistic expression, and the affirmation of the richness and diversity of the Ukrainian language.
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