Labov's Principle of Active Use

Labov's Principle of Active Use states that language is strengthened and maintained through regular and deliberate practice. When individuals actively use words, phrases, or pronunciation in daily communication, these linguistic features become more stable and entrenched. Simply put, for a language or dialect pattern to persist, people need to use it consistently and consciously. This principle underscores the importance of active engagement in speech—like speaking, practicing, or emphasizing specific language forms—for preserving linguistic features over time. It highlights that language change and stability are driven by how people actively employ language in their everyday interactions.