William Labov is known for his contribution to the study of which aspect of language?

William Labov is recognized for his significant contributions to the study of marginalized dialects and languages, particularly within the context of sociolinguistics. His research focused on how language varies within different social groups and the ways in which social factors influence language use and development. Labov's work notably highlighted the legitimacy and structural complexity of non-standard dialects, challenging the notion that they are inferior to standard varieties of language.

His studies, particularly on African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and other dialects, provided insights into the social dynamics of language, including issues of identity, power, and exclusion. Through his systematic studies in urban settings, Labov demonstrated how dialects can reflect cultural heritage and community identity, thereby emphasizing the importance of recognizing and valuing all forms of language.