The variety of languages is one of the numerous characteristics of a society's culture and

identity in this age of globalization. Depending on the geographical and ethnic variables of a
given language, one language may have several varieties (Sukarno, 2015). Language is a
reflection of a community's history, standards, and perspective, as well as a means of
communication. This variety can be seen in Javanese through separate language varieties. In
the context of the Javanese language, language variety refers to the various variations of the
Javanese language, which include dialects spoken in specific areas. North Banten Dialect
(Serang Java), Surakarta Dialect, Yogyakarta Dialect, Madiun Dialect, Banyumas Dialect
(Banyumasan), Kulonan Javanese Dialect, and Timuran Javanese Dialect are some examples
of Javanese language variation. Differences in pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar
associated with a specific region or group of speakers are examples of these variations
(MERITSEBA, Rahardjo, Pradekso, 2013) . From elegant Javanese Jogja to the unique
character of Ngapak and the cultural style of Solo Javanese, Research on Javanese language
variation and varieties reveals not only language diversity, but also the varied and originality
characteristics of each specific culture within the Javanese community. In the beginning, to
understand the greater context behind Java's rich cultural identity, we will investigate the
differences in Javanese language varieties and its impact on society especially in Educational
English Department Students Universitas Tidar 2021.
Language variety in society serves a variety of purposes and functions. It reflects the
diversity of social groups and geographical areas, as well as meeting a variety of
communication needs. Wardhaugh defines language variety as differences in pronunciation,
word choice, and grammar caused by external influences. Firstly, it serves as a mirror,
reflecting the vast variety of social and cultural diversity that exists in societies. As Zulaekho
(2011) notes, Language diversity reflects the diversity of social groups and geographical
areas, allowing people to express their identity and community membership. Secondly, These
different varieties of language meet a variety of communicative needs. According to
Zulaekho (2011), different languages serve different communicative functions. Formal,
consultative, casual, and intimate styles, for example, serve different social functions and are
used in different social contexts. Additionally, as highlighted by Sutrisno (2015), Language
variety expresses social identity by reflecting the speaker's background, social status, and
group membership. Moreover, Language variety enables people to communicate effectively
within their social and cultural contexts, allowing them to express meaning nuances and
establish rapport with others, as asserted by Nur Hasanah, Yusak Hudiyono, and Jaka Farih
Agustian (2020). They allow people to express hidden meanings and establish connections
within their social group.Lastly, as Abdurrahman (2008) posits, Individuals and communities
may use multiple language varieties as a result of bilingualism or language contact, which
reflects language variety.
In real-life situations, language variety often become a subject of humor. For instance,
encounters with individuals speaking the Ngapak dialect, characterized by unique speech
patterns such as the word "kencot," which means "hungry" in Ngapak but "to step on" in
Yogyakarta Javanese, often evoke amusement due to these language variety. However, in the
context of communication, misunderstandings can arise from numerous word variations. A
lack of understanding regarding language usage, particularly in the context of
Ngapak/Banyumas Javanese, often occurs when speakers overlook the unfamiliarity of their
audience with such language varieties. This, in turn, leads to problems like ineffective
communication, either due to the speaker's rapid pace or hesitant speech, restricting
understanding and causing repeated clarifications.
These language variety can potentially lead to negative stigmas or perceptions. For
instance, According to a study published in Sage Journals, stigmatizing non-native speakers
may increase negative relationships and create social tension. (Birney, Rabinovich, Morton,
Heath, Ashcroft, 2019). Additionally, Misunderstandings are frequently caused by the
diversity of language varieties. As documented in studies like one published in the journal
Intercultural Communication Studies regarding language variety misunderstandings and
conflicts resulting from intercultural interaction.(Gao, 2002). The limited understanding and
acceptance of these language varieties within different communities, like the continuous
usage of Ngapak/Banyumas Javanese. Furthermore, When specific language varieties are
used inappropriately in context, they can cause discomfort or offense. (Gao, 2002).
Ultimately, Poor understanding of language varieties can restrict an individual's social
participation, causing discomfort or marginalization in conversations involving unfamiliar
varieties of language. Language variety has been found to cause ineffective group formations,
social disconnection and lower individuals' literary capacities in a variety of settings, all of
which can have an impact on knowledge sharing. (Canestrino, Magliocca, Li, 2022)
The main aim of this research is to look into the challenges posed by language variety
among students in the Universitas Tidar English Education Study Program, with the goal of
finding effective strategies for reducing potential misunderstandings, negative stigmas, and
social conflict caused by various Javanese language varieties. The purpose of this research is
to pay attention to how language variety is used among students in the Universitas Tidar
English Education Study Program and provide practical solutions that promote better
understanding, effective communication, and positive intercultural interactions.