The Gist
Well, like, dude...its Labor Day
Sep 2, 2024
Valerie Fridland, a linguistics professor and author of 'Well, like, dude', dives into the evolution of language and cultural phrases. She humorously critiques traditional views on 'bad English' and explains how the word 'like' has morphed from a simple verb to a conversational staple. The discussion explores the fleeting nature of slang and the challenges it poses among generations. Additionally, Fridland highlights the impact of societal norms on politeness, revealing hilarious anecdotes about trying to decipher children's contemporary slang.
52:44
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Quick takeaways
- Valerie Friedland argues that informal speech, like 'like' and 'dude,' reflects the dynamic nature of language rather than decline in standards.
- The contrast between prescriptivism and descriptivism highlights the need to value diverse speech patterns instead of imposing outdated language norms.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Language and Its Perception
Language has been perceived as evolving throughout history, yet changes often evoke feelings of suspicion and disdain, particularly towards newer forms. Valerie Friedland notes that many people consider informal speech, like the use of 'like' or 'dude,' as indicators of declining standards, failing to recognize that such expressions reflect the dynamic nature of language. She emphasizes that these linguistic shifts do not denote decay; rather, they represent natural progressions within communication. This perspective challenges the historically prescriptive view that only certain forms of language are correct, urging listeners to embrace the ability of language to adapt and vary based on context and societal change.
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