There are additional reasons why language is the key to accessing a culture. Much research has concluded that language shapes our thinking, not only what we think, but how we think. It shapes ideas. Cultures without certain words in their lexicons are also lacking that concept in their minds. Further, language is an emblem of group identity and solidarity. On pure linguistic principles, all languages and all language varieties are created equal. However, social hierarchies are often constructed and reinforced through the language, and the variety of that language, one speaks.
Additionally, social change is reflected in linguistic evolution. Aside from the jargon that the digital age has brought with it, social change is reflected in the move away from use of certain racialized and gendered terms in common prose and speech. In these ways as well, language reflects culture, and culture shapes language and its use.
Cultural characteristics within language use
Some research suggests that human interaction can broadly be divided into low context and high context communication styles. In low context communication, there is a greater reliance on direct, explicit verbal communication. This is a system of "say what you mean" and "be specific about it."In high context communication, on the other hand, communication relies largely on indirect and nonverbal cues. In low context communication, communication is delivered and direct, in a matter-of-fact tone, transparent, assertive, and sender oriented, where the responsibility for clear communication rests with the sender. The speaker is responsible for constructing a clear persuasive message that the listener can easily decode. In high context communication, communication is indirect, delivered in a tactful, nonverbal tone, diplomatic, self-humbling, and receiver sensitive, where it is the receiver's responsibility to infer the hidden or contextual meanings of the message. The valued priority is not to say anything that will offend the listener. Verbal styles can vary among individuals, and can be direct or indirect. In a direct style, the speaker's intentions are revealed with clarity and enunciated with a forthright tone of voice. Indirect styles camouflage the speaker's actual intentions and he delivers it in a softer tone.
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