Znaczenie badań systemu grafematycznego współczesnej polszczyzny dla przyszłych zmian zasad pisowni

The article provides an overview of key issues related to the graphematic system of contemporary Polish. It discusses the problem of identifying the smallest unit of the graphematic system, indicating that the grapheme – an abstract equivalent of the phoneme – serves this function in Polish orthography. Furthermore, an analysis of several phonographic graphemes is presented. Special attention is given to the phenomenon of allography, i.e., the existence of graphic variants of a single grapheme. It is emphasized that allography in contemporary Polish has a limited yet noticeable scope. Another issue addressed is whether Polish orthography can truly be described as ‘phonetic.’ In the final part of the article, potential directions for changes in Polish orthography are proposed, aiming to simplify and standardize spelling. It is suggested that reforms should strive for a greater consistency with pronunciation rules and the elimination of exceptions.