noun
center versus periphery theory
A theory in Japanese dialectology proposing that older linguistic forms are preserved in peripheral areas while innovations spread from the cultural center. Also known as the 'wave theory' of dialect diffusion.
方言周圏論によれば、古い語形は周辺部に残る。
According to the center versus periphery theory, older word forms remain in peripheral areas.
柳田國男が提唱した方言周圏論は、日本語の方言研究に大きな影響を与えた。
The center versus periphery theory proposed by Kunio Yanagita greatly influenced Japanese dialect research.