108: Mailbag of Etymology (with Douglas Harper)
Because Language - a podcast about linguistics, the science of language.
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The Fluidity of Language and Etymology
This chapter explores the intricacies of etymology in Swedish and English, addressing the challenges posed by historical documentation and linguistic evolution. It discusses the lingering impact of cultural history on word usage, including the complexities surrounding potentially offensive terms and the societal attitudes shaping their meanings. The conversation highlights the uncertainties in determining word origins and the evolving nature of language amid changing social contexts.
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