This study aims to describe the forms and functions of the Osing dialect used by the people of
Kemiren Village as a representation of social identity. The research focuses on how distinctive
Osing vocabulary and pronunciation are employed in daily interactions and the social meanings
embedded within them. A qualitative descriptive approach with an intralingual matching method
was used to compare Osing dialect utterances with the Javanese dialect. Data were collected
through observation and interviews with three native Osing speakers actively involved in social and
traditional activities in Kemiren, Banyuwangi. The findings show that the Osing dialect possesses
unique lexical and phonological features that distinguish it from Javanese, such as the use of isun
(I), riko (you), madyang (eat), and turau (sleep). These differences not only indicate linguistic
variation but also reflect the identity and social solidarity of the Osing community. The use of the
Osing dialect in traditional ceremonies, family communication, and daily conversation
demonstrates its role in preserving cultural values and strengthening social identity. The
implications of this research indicate that preserving local dialects such as Osing plays a crucial
role in maintaining community solidarity, cultural continuity, and linguistic diversity in Indonesia.
Furthermore, these findings can serve as a reference for sociolinguistic studies and cultural
preservation programs aimed at strengthening regional identities in the era of globalization.