Meaning: The quote by William Labov highlights the evolving nature of African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and challenges the notion that it is becoming less distinct from other dialects. William Labov is a prominent linguist known for his research on sociolinguistics and language variation. His quote suggests that AAVE is not simply converging with Standard American English or other dialects but is actually diverging and becoming more distinct in its important features.

African American Vernacular English, also known as African American English or Black English, is a variety of English spoken by many African Americans in the United States. AAVE has its roots in the historical and cultural experiences of African Americans and has been the subject of extensive linguistic study. It is characterized by unique phonological, grammatical, and lexical features that distinguish it from Standard American English.

Labov's assertion that AAVE is becoming more different from other dialects challenges the traditional view that non-standard dialects tend to converge with the standard variety over time. This view, known as the "convergence hypothesis," suggests that non-standard dialects will gradually adopt the linguistic features of the dominant standard variety as speakers strive for social and economic advancement.

However, Labov's research and that of other linguists have shown that AAVE has not followed this pattern of convergence. Instead, AAVE has exhibited a remarkable stability and resilience, maintaining its distinct linguistic features despite social and cultural changes. Labov's quote reflects the findings of his research, which have demonstrated the ongoing vitality and complexity of AAVE as a unique and evolving dialect.

The notion that AAVE is becoming more different from other dialects raises important questions about language diversity, identity, and linguistic discrimination. It challenges the assumption that linguistic diversity is a temporary and ultimately diminishing feature of society. Instead, it emphasizes the value of preserving and understanding the linguistic richness and complexity of AAVE and other non-standard varieties.

Furthermore, Labov's quote sheds light on the dynamic nature of language and the ways in which dialects can evolve and diverge over time. It highlights the importance of recognizing and studying the unique linguistic features of AAVE as a legitimate and valuable variety of English, rather than viewing it through the lens of deficit or deviation from the standard.

In conclusion, William Labov's quote underscores the ongoing significance and distinctiveness of African American Vernacular English. It challenges conventional assumptions about language convergence and affirms the resilience and complexity of AAVE as a unique dialect with its own rich linguistic heritage. This quote invites further exploration and understanding of the evolving nature of AAVE and its role in the broader landscape of American English dialects.