A Standard for Written Singapore English?

Abstract

Singapore Eng constitutes a number of varieties & is widely used as a lingua franca. The concept of a single standard Eng is problematic for the oral lang. In the written lang, however, a standard might be established based on criteria of local written prestige usage, usage not locally stigmatized, & usage not internationally stigmatized. Some general standards have been established over the years, largely through consensus of the users. Eighty-nine Singapore Eng texts were analyzed for nonstandard usages, with very low rates found in newspapers & government publications. The difficulties involved in creating & promulgating a formal local standard are examined, although de facto local standards already exist. B. Annesser Murray.