A UNIQUE DIALECT
FOR A UNIQUE PEOPLE
THE CYPRIOT DIALECT
Although the official language of the Republic of Cyprus is Greek, it is spoken with a distinct Cypriot dialect. Often referred to as Cypriot Greek, it is quite different from the standard Modern Greek, spoken throughout Greece.
Although standard Modern Greek is used across the island in several spheres, such as TV broadcasts, parliamentary sessions, and in schools and universities, speaking in a non-Cypriot dialect in everyday life is unusual and may seem slightly arrogant.
The standard Modern Greek language differs from Cypriot Greek not only in several phrases and the meanings of some words, but also in pronunciation. The latter is considered harsher and the closest dialect widely spoken by ancient Greeks.
A SPECIFIC VARIANT OF MODERN DAY GREEK
Retaining several facets of ‘Koine Greek’ that was widely spoken across the ancient Greek diaspora, Cypriot Greek or ‘Kypriaka’, as it has become known, not only forms a unique variant of the Modern Greek language, but also acts as a unique identifier of Cypriot people the world over.
HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENTS & INFLUENCES
Over the centuries, various foreign occupying powers have dominated Cyprus at different times. As a result, they have all left an indelible mark that has helped to create a unique historical melting pot on the island. All of this is directly reflected throughout the island’s architecture, culture, food, history, and more notably, its language. Greek in origin, Cypriots have used language to retain their Hellenism for centuries, and the historical developments that have shaped the Cypriot dialect tell the story of the island’s resilience.
GREEK AT ITS CORE
The Cypriot dialect also reflects the historical, cultural, and social influences within Cyprus. The Cypriot dialect has remained Greek at its core, but other languages of the region have also helped shape it. These languages include Phoenician, Turkish, Arabic, Maronite, Armenian, English, and Latin, which have all helped to further its development as a unique dialect. The dialect also displays a vast vocabulary, which borrows from all of these languages. This fusion of words, in some ways, has over the years helped to represent unity between the different communities on the island.
ANCIENT GREEK SETTLERS
Ancient Greek settlers are thought to have first arrived on the island during the 12th century BC. These Greek speaking people are thought to have brought their language, as well as their cultures with them. Settlers from Mycenae and Sparta, spoke a specific ancient Greek language known as ‘Koine Greek.’ This dialect of Greek was considered much harsher than the more refined language spoken in central Greece at the time. The Greek dialect spoken in Cyprus then became isolated and in some ways then began to develop its own unique phonetic overtone. This largely remained uninterrupted until the Hellenistic period following Alexander the Great’s conquests.
ge of the A HELLENISTIC WORLD
Cyprus was largely dominated by Greek Ptolemaic rulers after Alexander the Great’s death in 323 BC. This further solidified the Greek language and the overall Greek culture across the island. Other foreign influences, however, greatly affected its linguistics at this time. The local dialect yet again began to interact with other languages, more notably with the language of Phoenician traders, whicch allowed the dialect to phonetically develop further.
THE DOMINANT LANGUAGE ON THE ISLAND
Although Greek was still the dominant language on the island during the Roman era, several Latin words were introduced to the Cypriot dialect. Although the Latin influence was later muted during the predominantly Greek Byzantine era that followed, Latin remained relevant to the Cypriot dialect thereafter. The Greek Orthodox Church, which was the main advocate for the education system at the time, helped greatly to preserve a Greek Cypriot heritage by its use of Greek as its main language,
TURKISH INFLUENCES
Latin influences returned under both the Frankish and Venetian eras that followed, then came the period of Ottoman rule. Although Greek was still widely spoken, Modern Turkish emerged as the new dominant language across the island. This affected the vocabulary and phonetics of the Cypriot dialect further after a new range of Turkish loan words were gradually introduced. These new words went on to blend seamlessly into the local vernacular, further moulding the Greek Cypriot dialect into its overall unique Cypriot context.
ENGLISH INFLUENCES
British colonial rule further developed the Greek Cypriot dialect. This occurred after the exposure of various colonial administrative terminologies. The establishment of English as the island’s second language, within the Cypriot education system, also had a great impact on the dialect. Several English loan words began to appear leading to yet another unique hybridisation of some of the dialect’s words. This, along with the preservation of the Modern Greek cultural identity, again led to a distinctive new Cypriot Greek lexicon.
THE LINGUISTIC FEATURES OF THE CYPRIOT DIALECT
The Cypriot dialect today exhibits several linguistic features that distinguish it from today’s standard Modern Greek language. Phonologically, it has retained certain archaic Greek elements that have largely disappeared from other modern-day Greek dialects. For instance, the diphthongs and specific vowel sounds often reflect features similar to those of ancient Koine Greek. This helps to provide a direct link to its linguistic origins. Morphologically and syntactically, the dialect also diverges from standard Modern Greek. It also preserves certain grammatical structures and forms that have been in decline in other Greek dialects. Additionally, the use of diminutives and augmentatives is more prevalent in the Cypriot dialect. This helps to lend a unique flavour to its oral traditions and communication styles.
A NATIONAL IDENTITY
The Cypriot dialect not only serves as a stark marker that immediately identifies Greek Cypriots from other Greeks, but it has often been used as a vehicle for the expression of national identity. This has occurred particularly during periods of political turmoil. A good example of this is the struggle for independence from British rule in the mid-20th century. Nationalist songs, specifically using the dialect, emerged, helping it to become a symbol of not only unity but also a Cypriot identity.
A DIALECT OF CULTURAL IDENTITY
Understanding and appreciating the historical developments of the Cypriot dialect provides valuable insights into the complexities of language and cultural identity in the modern world. This also fosters a sense of unified belonging among speakers that plays a crucial role in shaping a Cypriot cultural identity. The dialect remains deeply embedded into the island’s folklore, literature, and music, and this often reflects local Cypriot customs and traditions.
A VITAL COMPONANT OF CYPRIOT IDENTITY
Today, the Cypriot dialect faces probably its most relevant challenges. The ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the dialect highlight its significance, not only as a means of communication, but also as a vital component of the Cypriot identity. Globalisation and the dominance of standard Modern Greek, are constantly threatening the island’s linguistic vitality, particularly in formal education and media. This has led to a decline in the use of ‘Kypriaka’ among younger generations. This along with the increasing exposure to English, and other global languages, has contributed to a shift in linguistic practices. Efforts to preserve and revitalise the Cypriot dialect, however, are underway. With this in mind, some cultural institutions, educational programs, and local media have started to integrate the dialect into their offerings. This has fostered a renewed appreciation for it. Cypriot authors are also increasingly incorporating the dialect directly into their literary works ensuring that it is also represented in Modern Greek Cypriot literature.
