Adam and linguist Anne Curzan discuss evolving grammar rules, language peeves, and Gen-Z slang. They explore the history of English spelling, feigning knowledge, and the balance between grammar guardians and word lovers. Anne's book 'Says Who?' offers a fun usage guide for language enthusiasts.
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Quick takeaways
Acceptance of 'me' over 'I' in English usage showcases linguistic evolution.
Internet culture influences language trends, highlighting the dynamic nature of communication.
Deep dives
Evolution of Language Norms
The discussion revolves around the evolving norms of language usage with insights on the democratization of grammar rules in contemporary communication. The podcast delves into the shift from rigid language conventions to embracing linguistic evolution, exemplifying instances like the acceptance of 'me' over 'I' in English usage along with the adaptability of singular 'data points' instead of 'datums'.
Language Trends and Influence
A deep dive into emerging language trends highlights the impact of internet culture on linguistic evolution. The conversation forecasts the future trajectory of language influenced by rapid online dissemination, prompting reflections on the dynamic nature of communication and the challenge of predicting language transformations amidst digital communication advancements.
Navigating Linguistic Evolution
Revisiting personal language preferences, the podcast explores dilemmas surrounding the preservation of traditional grammar structures. The host's journey from staunch adherence to language norms to embracing linguistic variability underscores the delicate balance between conventional rules and evolving linguistic expressions, shedding light on the concept of maintaining language authenticity amidst changing norms.
Rethinking Language Perception
A shift in language perception is explored through a lens of reevaluation, emphasizing the fluidity of word meanings and the influence of societal dynamics on linguistic interpretations. The dialogue challenges conventional notions of language correctness, encouraging a nuanced approach to viewing linguistic variations and the significance of communication evolution in shaping societal language constructs.
Anne Curzan is a professional word nerd. As a linguist and English professor, Anne studies the history of the English language — and how public attitudes about words shift over time. Adam and Anne geek out over whether the grammar rules you learned in school are justified, why some language peeves are (or aren't) worth holding onto, and confess what they're learning from Gen-Z slang. Anne's latest book, Says Who? A Kinder, Funner Usage Guide For Everyone Who Cares About Words, is out now.
Transcripts for ReThinking are available at go.ted.com/RWAGscripts
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