Which of the following best defines 'dialect'?

The definition of 'dialect' as a form of language spoken by people in a particular region or group captures its essence perfectly. Dialect encompasses variations in pronunciation, vocabulary, grammatical structures, and usage that are characteristic of specific geographic areas or social groups. It is not merely about differences in accent; dialect can also highlight cultural identities and social distinctions within language.

This understanding is vital in literature, as dialect can deepen the reader's immersion into a character's identity and background, reflecting cultural nuances and regional characteristics that add authenticity to the narrative. This contrasts with other options, which focus on unrelated literary elements, such as poetic structure, narrative techniques, or individual writing styles, none of which pertain directly to the specific linguistic features that define dialect.