Linguist Anne Curzan and host delve into grammar rules, language pet peeves, and Gen-Z slang. They discuss the evolution of language, the influence of early linguistic experiences, and navigating the inner 'grammar commando'. The conversation also touches on language changes, effectiveness in writing, and the impact of Gen-Z slang on language evolution.
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Quick takeaways
The evolution of language highlights the potential disappearance of pronouns like 'I' and 'me.'
Embracing lexical changes emphasizes adapting language norms to evolving societal trends.
Deep dives
Language Evolution and the Persistence of Singular They
The discussion with linguist Anne Curzan delves into language evolution and the acceptance of singular they as both a subject and an object pronoun. It highlights the fluid nature of language, emphasizing how pronoun distinctions like ye and you have historically collapsed, providing insight into the potential evolution or disappearance of pronouns like I and me in the future.
Challenging Grammar Conventions and Language Rules
Anne Curzan challenges conventional grammar rules by discussing the collapse of whom and predicts the fading relevance of the pronoun. She advocates for understanding language changes over time and underlines how language contact, especially through the internet, will impact linguistic conventions, showcasing the complexity and adaptability of language over generations.
Redefining Language Usage and Cultural Shifts
The conversation explores the impact of culture and social dynamics on language usage, delving into the slang terms 'for the plot' and 'drop the lore,' reflecting how modern narratives and storytelling influence language evolution. It highlights the fluidity and adaptability of language in response to societal trends and emerging communication platforms.
Embracing Lexical Changes and Linguistic Diversity
Anne Curzan's insights on embracing lexical changes and linguistic diversity underscore the importance of evolving language norms. She navigates the shifting landscape of language usage, such as the repurposing of punctuation in text messaging, showcasing the dynamic nature of language and encouraging a balanced approach between traditional rules and contemporary linguistic practices.
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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