We’re often advised not to use “um” or “uh”, or “so” and “you know” in our communication. But linguist Valerie Fridland might argue otherwise. “Language is about how we encode both the linguistic message and a social message,” she says. “Crutch words … are really valuable and they have arisen to serve a need.” In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Fridland sits down with host and strategic communications lecturer Matt Abrahams to discuss how and when we use "you know","so", and other filler words. For example, Fridland says, the way we use “um” varies greatly from how and we might use “uh.” And the use of “like,” while deplored by many, actually serves a linguistic function and can provide context and background for a listener.She and Matt also discuss the social linguistic function of vocal fry and whether emojis have a place in business communication. Fridland is a professor of sociolinguistics at the University of Nevada. She's an expert on the relationship between language and society and recently released a new book, Like Literally Dude: Arguing for the Good in Bad English.Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn,  Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn ********Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

Valerie Fridland is a sociolinguist, Professor of Linguistics at the University of Nevada, a researcher and an author.On average we say around 5,000 words every day. But how often have you assessed why you communicate the way you do, or where the words you're using came from? This is where the fascinating field of sociolinguistics comes in, exploring the history of our speech patterns and words' origins to help us develop new and better ways to communicate.Expect to learn why languages evolved to be so complex, how to stop saying ‘like’ so much, how social media has impacted the way we speak, why you keep using “um” and “uh” all the time, why Black Twitter is at the forefront of all cool new lingo, the unexpected origin story of the word ‘Hello’, why I apparently have hard time pronouncing my R’s and much more...Sponsors:Get £150 discount on Eight Sleep products at https://eightsleep.com/modernwisdom (discount automatically applied)Go to my sponsor https://betterhelp.com/modernwisdom for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and helpGet 20% discount on House Of Macadamias’ nuts at https://houseofmacadamias.com/modernwisdom (use code MW20)Extra Stuff:Buy Like Literally Dude - https://amzn.to/41HmKaR Get my free Reading List of 100 books to read before you die → https://chriswillx.com/books/To support me on Patreon (thank you): https://www.patreon.com/modernwisdom-Get in touch.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriswillxTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/chriswillxYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/modernwisdompodcastEmail: https://chriswillx.com/contact/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Valerie Fridland is a professor, sociolinguist, author, and public speaker. Her recent book is: Like, Literally, Dude. Arguing for the Good in Bad English.She joins me on the podcast today for a fascinating discussion about aspects of English we often consider to be bad, such as UM and AH. We also talk about the use of "like" and other language features like Vocal Fry. Valerie also helps me feel more comfortable with my use of UM and AH in speech as they actually have special meanings within conversation.This is a fascinating conversation and I hope you like it too!Show notes page - https://levelupenglish.school/podcast216Sign Up for Free Lessons - https://www.levelupenglish.school/#freelessonsJoin Level Up English - https://courses.levelupenglish.schoolBy becoming a member, you can access all podcast transcripts, listen to the private podcast and join live lessons and courses on the website.This free video series will take you through a few lessons to Level Up your English quickly. Join me!Click here to sign up = https://courses.levelupenglish.school/fp/miniseriesSign Up for Free Lessons - https://www.levelupenglish.school/#freelessonsJoin Level Up English - https://courses.levelupenglish.schoolBy becoming a member, you can access all podcast transcripts, listen to the private podcast and join live lessons and courses on the website.

Sociolinguist Valerie Fridland and speech coach Rhonda Khan join the discussion on the frequent use of 'like' in modern language. They explore its historical roots, from 18th-century slang to contemporary usage, especially among young women. The conversation emphasizes the societal judgments tied to this seemingly trivial word and encourages embracing authentic communication styles. They also share tips for minimizing filler words without losing enthusiasm, promoting effective and personalized expression in both casual and professional settings.

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Join Valerie Fridland, a linguistics professor, as she dissects speech styles in leadership, revealing how word choices impact audience perception. Cameron Herold shares secrets of exponential business growth. Nick Arellano offers insights into maximizing company value during sales, while Rob Volpe stresses the need for empathy in leadership. Morné Smit discusses the importance of systematic sales processes, and Admiral Sandy Winnefeld reflects on leadership in high-pressure situations, blending personal stories with strategies for resilience and effective communication.

In this lively discussion, sociolinguist Valerie Fridland explores the surprising benefits of 'bad' English in leadership. She argues that filler words and vocal fry can enhance communication, challenging traditional views on language use. Valerie shares insights on how regional dialects shape perceptions and the evolution of words like 'like.' The conversation also touches on the complexities of language in social identity and the importance of context in effective leadership communication, all while keeping a humorous tone.

Valerie Fridland, a linguistics professor and author of 'Well, like, dude', dives into the evolution of language and cultural phrases. She humorously critiques traditional views on 'bad English' and explains how the word 'like' has morphed from a simple verb to a conversational staple. The discussion explores the fleeting nature of slang and the challenges it poses among generations. Additionally, Fridland highlights the impact of societal norms on politeness, revealing hilarious anecdotes about trying to decipher children's contemporary slang.

Valerie Fridland, a linguistics professor at the University of Nevada, dives into the fascinating origins of American English, revealing how Native American words and Noah Webster's reforms shaped its identity. She explores the quirks of phrasal verbs alongside insightful tips for distinguishing them from other verb forms. Listeners enjoy a humorous family anecdote about the term 'kaka naka', highlighting how personal language evolves. The discussion is a delightful mix of history and humor, celebrating the quirks that make American English unique.

Linguist Valerie Fridland discusses how speech habits like 'like' and 'literally' improve communication. She challenges prescriptivism, explores the evolution of language, and debunks misconceptions. The podcast also delves into the influence of specific groups on linguistic changes and the benefits of filled pauses in speech.