Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing Exploring slang, AI ghost words, and language change, with Heddwen Newton
Mar 27, 2025
In this lively discussion, Heddwen Newton, an English teacher and translator from Germany, dives into the ever-evolving world of slang and language changes. She reveals the meaning behind trending terms like 'fridgescaping' and the quirky challenges of AI-generated 'ghost words.' Heddwen also explores cultural differences, such as the varied uses of 'nosh,' and shares her insights on the Mandela Effect. With humor and linguistic charm, she paints a vivid picture of how language continually adapts and transforms!
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Pod Snappery
- Heddwen Newton loves the Victorian slang "pod snappery", meaning the belief in one's own infallibility.
- This originated from a character in Charles Dickens' Our Mutual Friend.
Fax, No Printer
- Heddwen finds humor in the slang "fax, no printer," used to emphasize truthfulness.
- This plays on the antiquated nature of fax machines for younger generations.
She Ate
- The phrase "she ate and left no crumbs," originating in LGBTQ+ drag culture, signifies exceptional performance.
- Its popularity has led to shortened forms like "she ate" or "she ate that."