Balinese is greatly complicated by its caste influences; there are high Balinese (Brahmana), low Balinese (Sudra) and even middle Balinese (Satria). Balinese language is a completely different vocabulary and grammar and much more complex rules for its use. Middle Balinese has an even more restricted vocabulary. It is mainly used when one wishes to be very polite but does not want to emphasize caste differences. Initially a conversation between two strangers would commence in the high language. At some point the question of caste would be asked and then the level adjusted accordingly.
Below are the general rules in using the Balinese language:
::If two strangers speak each other, the must use the high language (singgih) or alus sor
::If the Sudra one speaks to the satria one, and they know each other, He/She must speak the middle language named Alus sor even the Satria speak by using the lower language (kapara)
::If the Sudra and the Satria speak to the Brahmana, they use the highest language named singgih even the brahmana uses the kapara language or the middle one (alus sor)
Traditionally, however language rules in Bali had to be observed irrespective of age, position or sex. Traditional rules of Caste that had so long been considered an unflinching exigency are becoming less pronounced and less rigorous. Albeit, in the face of modern trends the determination of language-usage of certain categories of words, is still much espoused and very much in vogue in Bali. However, significant adjustments have been proposed at more recent Language-Seminars on the Island, and this, no doubt, will have its effects and repercussions in Balinese Society today.
