Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing Why people say 'I mean ...' Missing pronouns. Cat-tracted.
Dec 17, 2024
Explore why 'I mean' is making a comeback in conversations! Discover how it shapes interaction and reflects trends. The discussion also highlights the growing tendency to omit pronouns, making speech feel more intimate. It dives into how these language shortcuts reveal deeper connections among speakers and trace their historical roots. Plus, hear about the subtle differences between American and British English usages, showcasing the evolution of our conversational styles.
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"I mean"
- "I mean" is a discourse marker, adding pragmatic or attitudinal information (vibes).
- It doesn't change a sentence's literal meaning but adds nuance.
New uses of "I mean"
- "I mean" is now used to intensify, justify, or mark a point as obvious, inviting listener buy-in.
- It can have a derisive or playful tone, especially when left dangling.
The spread of "I mean"
- The rise of "I mean" is linked to social media's growth and hybrid online communication.
- It helps convey sarcasm, snark, or shared stances in writing.
