Final answer:
Phonology helps understand dialects through analyzing sound patterns and variations, grammar variations, and studying historical origins.
Step-by-step explanation:
Phonology helps with understanding dialects by analyzing sound patterns and variations within a dialect. For example, in the Southern dialect, the pronunciation of 'pin' and 'pen' can vary.
Additionally, phonology helps in identifying grammar variations in dialects. For example, in African American Vernacular English (AAVE), verb conjugations differ from Standard English.
Furthermore, studying the historical origins of dialects helps in understanding how different dialects evolved based on regional influences. For example, in Middle English, different dialects developed due to regional influences.