Codification
The process of establishing and recording explicit rules for a language, typically through dictionaries, grammar books, and style guides that document and prescribe standard usage.
Real World
Samuel Johnson's 1755 Dictionary codified English spelling and meaning for the first time, and publishers like Oxford University Press continue this work today, with the OED adding words like 'selfie' only after widespread documented use.
Exam Focus
Distinguish prescriptive from descriptive codification in your answer — examiners reward precise use of these terms with supporting evidence.
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