What are dialects primarily defined as?

Dialects are primarily defined as variations of a language that are used by specific groups of speakers within a geographical area or social community. They encompass differences in pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammatical structures but still allow for mutual intelligibility among speakers of the same language. This means that while dialects can reflect regional or social identity, they are not limited to a small group nor do they represent all speakers uniformly.

The other options do not capture the essence of what a dialect is. Formal languages are typically standardized forms used in official writing and communication, which differ from the more nuanced and variable nature of dialects. Slang represents informal, often rapidly changing language used primarily among youth subcultures, but it is not the comprehensive linguistic variation that defines dialects. Lastly, technical jargon pertains to specialized terms and expressions particular to specific fields or professions, which again does not encompass the broader variations found in dialects. Thus, the correct understanding of dialects emphasizes their role as significant, recognizable variations within a larger linguistic system.