Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing Is ‘sick’...good? What we think of posh language and class. Misunderseed
Jul 1, 2025
Discover how the word 'sick' has flipped to mean 'good' and what this says about language evolution. Explore the historical concept of 'U and Non-U English' to understand class distinctions in vocabulary. Hear insights on how slang shapes meaning over time, showcasing the playful nuances of language. The discussion highlights the impact of societal values on word choices and encourages listeners to share their unique family expressions, revealing the rich tapestry of language and identity.
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How Words Flip Meanings
- Words can flip their meanings over time, often from negative to positive or vice versa.
- This happens through processes like semantic inversion, amelioration, and pejoration, shaped by social norms and cultural shifts.
U and Non-U Language Insight
- In 1950s Britain, simpler words signaled upper-class status, while fancier words often marked social climbers.
- This counterintuitive pattern showed social security expressed through language simplicity, known as U and non-U English.
Family Language Stories
- Debbie shared family-specific words like 'hair poo' for shampoo and 'missunderseed' for misunderstand.
- Such familect words create unique, endearing communication within families.