Lingthusiasm - A podcast that's enthusiastic about linguistics

Linguistic research has its highs and lows: from staging a traditional wedding to learn about ceremonial words to having your efforts to found a village school disrupted by civil war. Linguistic research can also be about highs and lows: in this case, looking at how high and low tones in Babanki words affect their meaning. In this episode, your host Lauren Gawne gets enthusiastic about the highs and lows of fieldwork in Babanki with Dr. Pius Akumbu, who's a linguist from Babanki, Cameroon, and a Director of Research in African Linguistics at CNRS in the LLACAN Lab (the Languages and Cultures of Africa Lab) in Paris, France. We talk about Professor Akumbu's documentation work on a wide variety of topics from the relationship of Babanki to other Grassfields and Bantu languages, what happens when words have a mysterious extra tone that is only produced under the right circumstances (floating tones), to that time he staged a false wedding to document traditional wedding ceremonial language – and led to a real couple opting for a traditional-style wedding of their own. We also talk about the process of founding a school in his home village to ensure that children have access to primary education in their own language. Click here for a link to this episode in your podcast player of choice: https://pod.link/1186056137/episode/dGFnOnNvdW5kY2xvdWQsMjAxMDp0cmFja3MvMjE3Mjk5MTM2Mg Read the transcript here: Announcements: Lingthusiasm has more than twenty interview episodes, and you can find them all together on our Topics page, where we have a category for our interviews. We also have over 100 bonus episodes for patrons, with a few interviews there as well. In this month’s bonus episode we get enthusiastic about the joys and challenges of translating internet slang with Miguel Sánchez Ibáñez, linguist and translator of Because Internet into Spanish! We talk about why Because Internet was the toughest and also most entertaining book he's ever translated (for some of the same reasons), from coming up with localized Spanish versions of vintage internet memes to making the silly names of pretend people in the example sentences just as silly in Spanish. We also talk about leaving breadcrumbs for future translators in the original text and the special challenge of translocalizing the title: Arroba Lengua isn't a literal translation of Because Internet, but it fits similarly into Spanish internet slang. Join us on Patreon now to get access to this and 100+ other bonus episodes. You’ll also get access to the Lingthusiasm Discord server where you can chat with other language nerds. https://patreon.com/posts/137995510 For links to things mentioned in this episode: https://lingthusiasm.com/post/795082104011669504/lingthusiasm-episode-108-highs-and-lows-of-tone

Dive into the complex tapestry of urban multilingualism as hosts explore how cities like New York, Melbourne, and Montreal thrive on linguistic diversity. Discover the over 700 languages spoken in NYC and the grassroots movements reclaiming space for endangered languages. The discussion shines a light on language rights and justice, emphasizing the responsibility to protect linguistic freedom. Personal stories reveal the rich narratives behind everyday interactions, making it clear that every city is a vibrant mix of voices and identities.

Dive into a playful debate on whether a hotdog is a sandwich! The hosts discuss the fluidity of food definitions and how cultural contexts shape our understanding of language. Explore prototype theory and its role in defining everyday words, from burritos to memes. Find out how personal interpretations influence meanings and why arguments over definitions can be so engaging. The hosts also reflect on their journey, community interactions, and the humorous moments that make their discussions unique!

In this discussion, Adam Aleksic, also known as Etymology Nerd, shares his journey from etymology to creating engaging content on TikTok and other platforms. He dives into how algorithms shape modern communication, specifically through short-form videos. Adam explores the evolution of digital slang and the differences in audience engagement between video formats and podcasts. Additionally, he discusses the challenges of writing a book in a rapidly changing linguistic landscape and the implications of censorship on language adaptation.

Hanna-Máret Outakoski, a Professor of Sámi languages at the Sámi University of Applied Sciences, dives into the rich intersection of multilingual literacy and Sámi language revitalization. She shares her journey growing up amidst Northern Sámi, Finnish, Norwegian, and English, highlighting the importance of writing in Indigenous education. The conversation reveals how Sámi literature has thrived since the 1500s, illustrating the role of play in language learning. They also discuss innovative approaches to teaching that blend traditional oral customs with modern literacy skills.

Dive into the fascinating world of gestures, a universal element of communication across all languages. Explore quirky research methods, like a special chair used to study spontaneous gestures without revealing the trick. Discover the interplay between spoken and signed languages and how personal experiences in learning ASL can alter one's gestures. Plus, enjoy insights from Lauren’s new book that aims to make gesture research accessible to everyone, blending humor with deep linguistic reflections.

Discover how learning an alien language can unlock superpowers, just like in sci-fi lore! Dive into the intriguing Sapir-Whorf hypothesis and its implications on language and thought. Explore how different languages categorize colors and affect our perception. Learn about the fascinating figures behind the hypothesis and the social reflections tied to linguistic diversity. The hosts celebrate the milestones of their journey while encouraging curiosity about how language shapes our understanding of reality.

Explore the fascinating levels of language from micro to macro! Learn how sounds and handshapes create meaning while discovering the dynamics of syntax and morphemes. Delve into the complexities of spoken and signed languages and understand how small syntax changes can alter interpretations. The hosts also share valuable insights into historical linguistics, sociolinguistics, and even offer a DIY linguistics course for eager learners. Language is not just a tool; it's a playful adventure waiting to be explored!

Celebrate 100 intriguing facts about linguistics with fascinating insights into brain language processing and playful sound symbolism. Discover the complexities of etymology and unique linguistic phenomena, like double borrowings. Explore how infants develop language skills and the connection between signed and spoken languages. Delve into conversational dynamics and the history of the word 'hundred.' Join in the creativity of language and enjoy a bingo game for diehard fans!

Dive into the fascinating world of politeness and rudeness as hosts explore linguistic nuances that shape our communication. Discover how concepts like 'saving face' vary across cultures and the impact of social settings on etiquette. The conversation veers into the comedy of polite exits and the absurdities of conversational styles. You'll also learn about generational shifts in email manners and the different uses of 'please' in British versus American English. It’s an entertaining look at the complexities of communication we often overlook!