KERA's Think Like — literally the most misunderstood word
Sep 2, 2025
Megan C. Reynolds, editor at Dwell Magazine and author of "Like: A History of the World’s Most Hated (and Misunderstood) Word," dives into the significance of the word 'like' in modern communication. She argues that it’s a powerful expression of emotions and connection, despite critics calling it a filler. Reynolds discusses its evolving role in language, cultural perceptions, and the contrast between formal and informal speech, particularly among young urban women. She even explores how AI struggles to grasp these nuances in human interactions.
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Like Is More Than A Filler Word
- The word like performs many conversational jobs beyond its dictionary senses.
- Megan Reynolds argues those uses make it indispensable, not useless.
Who Complains About 'Like' Most
- Reynolds reports pushback about like mostly from older men who call it useless.
- She says men often tell younger speakers they'll sound smarter if they drop like.
Different Functions Depend On Placement
- Like functions as filler, intensifier, and hedge in conversation.
- Reynolds shows how placement and tone change meaning and emotional coloring.
