Lingthusiasm - A podcast that's enthusiastic about linguistics

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Emily M. Bender, a Linguistics Professor at the University of Washington and co-host of Mystery AI Hype Theater 3000, explores how computers decode language. She reveals the difference between human and computer language learning, discussing the humorous failures that can arise. Emily emphasizes the significance of community over mere data, the ethical implications of AI training, and the creation of the Bender Rule, which promotes clarity in language use. Expect intriguing insights into the quirks of AI behavior and the future of linguistic technology!

Dive into the spooky side of linguistics as the hosts explore the etymology of possession and its surprising meanings! From Shakespeare’s witches to the complexities of kinship terms, they discuss how different languages express ownership. Discover the whimsical nuances of possessive constructions and the cultural significance tied to them. With playful examples, they tackle the notion of extraterrestrial communication and the challenges it presents. A delightful journey through language awaits!

Hop on the metaphor train as hosts embark on a linguistic adventure! Discover how metaphors shape our understanding of everything from love to learning. They explore cultural nuances, revealing how languages express abstract concepts through vivid imagery. Relationships and parenting are discussed through fascinating travel metaphors, while the importance of audio quality shines thanks to listener support. Expect humor and thought-provoking insights as they dive into the intricate world of language, including the playful nature of idioms and mixed metaphors!

Discover the mysteries of understanding unfamiliar words through the Gavagai thought experiment. The hosts discuss how children assume whole objects while learning language. They unpack the challenges of categorizing animals by their actions rather than appearances. Explore the strengths and weaknesses of language learning tools and the impact of cultural nuances in vocabulary. Engage with the joy of overcoming language barriers and the fascinating complexities of communication across different cultures.

Delving into the concept of aspect in linguistics, the hosts explore the shape of actions over time, linguistic repetition in various languages, and the historical aspects of teacup-lake-throwing controversy. They discuss habitual aspects, grammatical nuances in different languages, and the frequentative aspect in language. The episode is filled with linguistic analogies involving embroidery and tapestries.

Jacq Jones, a lecturer at Massey University, discusses how nonbinary and binary individuals express gender through voice, clothing choices, and makeup. They share insights on linguistic geography, Canadian and New Zealand Englishes, and the complexities of the 'R' sound in English pronunciation.

Delve into the world of smooshed words like 'brunch' and 'gonna', exploring the history and evolution of creative linguistic blends. From portmanteau words like 'motel' to the efficiency of pronunciations in ASL and French, discover the fascinating process of word 'smooshing' and the evolution of language over time. Uncover the secrets of secret codes and ciphers in the bonus episode, showcasing the playful and creative side of linguistics

Explore linguistic ambiguity through the concept of scope in this engaging podcast. Delve into humor, quote demarcation, bench plaque misinterpretation, and language intricacies. Discover exclusive bonus content and support options available for listeners.

Discover the intricacies of vowel sounds and accents through a unique meat bagpipe analogy. Explore personalized vowel plots and see the differences between Canadian and Australian accents. Unravel the social significance of vowels in relation to identity, gender, and regional variation.

The podcast explores the impact of writing on social fabric and cultural traditions. It discusses the preservation of oral culture and the transmission of knowledge through storytelling. The challenges of creating nuclear warning messages for the future are also explored. The episode delves into the tradition of bedtime stories and the epic poem Beowulf. Listeners can also find additional linguistic content and support the show through various platforms.