Linguist and philosopher Paul Saka, renowned for his work at the University of Texas on quasi-quotation, joins the conversation on unique speech patterns. They explore the scarcely understood 'Five Dah Phenomenon,' a phrase that's bypassed dictionaries and Google altogether. With humor, they discuss the playful evolution of phrases like 'da-da' and their cultural impact. The talk highlights how these expressions shape our communication and how curiosity can enhance listening skills, all while probing the intriguing connections between language and memory.
The episode explores the Five Dah Phenomenon, a lesser-known linguistic tool used to summarize conversations like 'blah blah blah.'
Cultural comparisons reveal similar expressions in various languages, highlighting a universal tendency for concise communication across human interactions.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Podcasting
Podcasting has undergone significant changes since its inception, especially in the recent years where many apps are transitioning to algorithm-driven models akin to platforms like YouTube. This shift allows listeners to easily discover new shows based on personal preferences, enhancing the listening experience. However, it also risks overshadowing episodes from beloved shows, making it crucial for listeners to actively manage their subscriptions. By ensuring they are following their favorite shows and enabling notifications, listeners can stay updated and engaged with every new release.
Exploring Filler Phrases
The podcast delves into common filler phrases like 'blah blah blah' and 'yada yada yada,' which serve as linguistic tools for summarizing or skipping over parts of conversations. These terms have recognized origins, with 'blah' appearing in print as early as 1918, while 'yada' gained popularity in the 1960s through comedic performances. In addition to these, there's a lesser-known phrase, represented by 'da da da,' that conveys similar sentiments but lacks formal recognition or definitions. The casual use of these expressions highlights their functional role in communication, where they encapsulate extended conversations succinctly.
Cultural Variations in Linguistic Devices
The conversation shifts to an exploration of how different cultures use similar expressions to convey the idea of skipping over unnecessary details or summarizing conversations. Linguists provide insights into comparable phrases found across various languages, illustrating the shared human experience in communication. For instance, phrases used in Hebrew and Greek function similarly to 'blah blah blah,' indicating a cultural tendency towards efficiency in conversation. This comparison suggests that while the expressions may differ, the underlying need for concise communication is a universal trait among language users.
“Blah, blah, blah” and “yada, yada, yada” have had plenty written about them. But there’s a longtime cousin of these phrases that’s much less understood. We use it all the time, yet it’s not in the dictionary. It’s not even Google-able. In this episode, we investigate the linguistic mysteries of the Five Dah Phenomenon. Featuring linguist & philosopher Paul Saka, and psychologist Helen Abadzi.
If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org.