What does the term "sociolect" refer to in linguistics?

The term "sociolect" specifically refers to a dialect or variation of language that is associated with a particular social group. This can include factors such as class, profession, age, or ethnicity, leading to language use that reflects the identity and shared experiences of that group. By focusing on the unique linguistic features and vocabulary that distinguish one social group's way of speaking from another, the concept of sociolect highlights the intricate relationship between language and social identity.

The other choices describe different linguistic concepts that do not align with the precise definition of sociolect. Formal language used in literature refers to a distinct style of language rather than a variation specific to a social group. A general type of dialect spoken by all does not capture the nuances and specific characteristics of how different social groups use language, while variation based on regional standards aligns more closely with the concept of a dialect rather than a sociolect, which centers on social factors.