A Study of Unique Characteristics in Restricted Langauge Usage in Sinhala

Abstract

Usage in language that serves highly specific functions in society can be termed ‘Restricted Forms.’ This concept was introduced by J. R. Firth as ‘Restricted Language.’ It was adapted as ‘Parimita Bhāshā’ into Sinhala by Professor Sugathapala De Silva. Some have referred to these restricted forms as ‘registers'. However, some unique independence of the restricted form can be identified. A remarkable characteristic of this form is that it remains unchanged over time. That is to say, the nature of a language does not change due to various influences during the evolution of language. Furthermore, ethical characteristics are also a significant identity of this. For instance, the language used when travelling in great forests, the language used when worshipping Sri Pada, and the language used when engaging in threshing activities. The research problem is to investigate the nature and independent characteristics of these restricted forms. Accordingly, the attention was also drawn to dispelling existing myths about restricted forms and identifying accurate restricted forms. The study utilises books and research works related to language as primary and secondary sources, while magazines and websites serve as tertiary sources. The results of this research demonstrate that by understanding the crises that have arisen in identifying —restricted usgae˜ within the various language varieties of Sinhala, it is possible to grasp the unique characteristics of Sinhala restricted forms. Furthermore, this research aims to alleviate the challenges encountered by students learning the Sinhala language. It can be concluded that restricted usage is a very limited language usage with independent characteristics, which is only used when necessary, interwoven with the moral beliefs of man, embellishing the language.