Explain It to Me
Why do I say “like” so much?
Sep 25, 2024
Sociolinguist Valerie Fridland and speech coach Rhonda Khan join the discussion on the frequent use of 'like' in modern language. They explore its historical roots, from 18th-century slang to contemporary usage, especially among young women. The conversation emphasizes the societal judgments tied to this seemingly trivial word and encourages embracing authentic communication styles. They also share tips for minimizing filler words without losing enthusiasm, promoting effective and personalized expression in both casual and professional settings.
44:21
Episode guests
AI Summary
Highlights
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The historical evolution of the word 'like' reflects its multifunctionality in communication, serving as a vital tool for expressing nuanced thoughts and emotions.
- Perception biases regarding the use of 'like' highlight societal judgments that unfairly target specific groups, particularly younger speakers and women, impacting their self-confidence in language use.
Deep dives
The Evolution of 'Like'
The word 'like' has a rich historical context, dating back to the 13th century as a verb before evolving into various usages. Its function as a discourse marker emerged around the 16th century, indicating that its use is not merely a modern trend but part of a longstanding evolution in language. Linguists argue that 'like' serves numerous purposes in communication, such as providing emphasis, indicating subjectivity, and establishing narrative perspective. This multifunctionality points to its valuable role in expressing nuanced thoughts and emotions rather than being a sign of poor language skills.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
