All Ears English Podcast AEE 1625: California English with Grant Barrett from A Way with Words
Aug 12, 2021
Grant Barrett, a California-based linguist and co-host of A Way With Words, reveals the intriguing dynamics of California English. He discusses how cultural and geographical factors shape this variant, highlighting the distinctions between Northern and Southern accents. Listeners learn about the evolving language, including the Cot merger, slang terms like 'dude,' and the influence of Spanish on place names. Barrett emphasizes the importance of using proper terms, showcasing the rich tapestry of regional dialects and local pronunciations.
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California English North-South Divide
- California English is still developing, influenced by Spanish in the south and Anglophones in the north.
- This north-south divide is reflected in place names, like "butte" (north) and "mesa" (south) for the same feature.
Butte vs. Mesa
- In Northern California, a flat-topped mountain is called a butte.
- In Southern California, the same feature is called a mesa, reflecting the Spanish influence.
Dude to Dud
- The word "dude" is sometimes pronounced as "dud" in California.
- This involves changing the "oo" sound to an "uh" sound, similar to the vowel in "good".