
FAQ About The Influence of African American Vernacular English in Media

What is African American Vernacular English (AAVE)?
African American Vernacular English (AAVE), sometimes referred to as Ebonics, is a dialect of English spoken by many African Americans. It has unique grammatical, phonological, and lexical patterns that distinguish it from Standard American English. AAVE has its roots in the West African languages and the vernaculars developed by enslaved Africans and their descendants in the United States. Over time, it has evolved and contributed significantly to American culture and language.