Lexicon Valley from Booksmart Studios

Delve into the complexities and evolution of the verb 'go' in English, exploring its historical roots and connection to Old English. Explore the impact of heavy language usage on irregular verb forms and the intricacies of 'go' in various languages. Discover the multifaceted uses of 'go' in songwriting and language, highlighting its idiomatic expressions. Compare the nuances of English language usage to other languages and explore the complexities of expressing 'go' in different languages.

Exploring language evolution, the podcast delves into the origins of words like 'acrobat' and 'come'. From superhero attire to English spelling quirks, the discussion covers the transformation of sounds and meanings spanning from Old English to Proto-Indo-European. Unraveling the complexity of prefixes and verb shifts in English and Germanic languages reveals the dynamic nature of language.

Reflexive pronouns are redundant in a way, sure, but they’re also quite common in many languages. John explains. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit lexiconvalley.substack.com

This podcast explores the origins and timeline of human language, challenging the belief that it originated in Europe and presenting evidence that points to Africa. It also delves into the mental capabilities of Homo erectus and the purpose of language in coordinating activities. The podcast touches upon the genetic connection between language and the Fox P2 gene, as well as the linguistic capabilities of Neanderthals and early humans.

Ayesha Rascoe, the voice of Ayesha Rascoe on NPR, faces criticism for her loud and high-pitched voice. The podcast explores the racial implications of this criticism and discusses the representation of black voices in media. It also examines the double standard in judging voices based on gender and race and explores the evolution of voices in media. The speaker challenges common perceptions about Ayesha Rascoe's voice, emphasizing its beauty.

A new dialect called Miami English is emerging in Florida due to the large Spanish-speaking population. The influence of English on Spanglish in Miami is explored, with examples of Spanglish words. The hosts analyze the lyrics of the song 'Wish You Were Here' and its linguistic context. The impact of different languages like Yiddish, Mandarin, and Russian on English is discussed. The historical influence of Old Norse on English is examined, including the use of Norseisms in everyday speech.

The trial transcript of a 225-year-old murder is filled with fascinating evidence of the way we used to talk. John explains. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit lexiconvalley.substack.com

Many English verbs have three forms — sing, sang and sung, for example. The problem is that speakers seem to want only two. John explains. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit lexiconvalley.substack.com

Too — whether about excess, addition or contradiction — evolved from to. John explains. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit lexiconvalley.substack.com

Some languages adopt their “health” word from the concept of wholeness — a metaphor that makes perfect sense. Other languages, however, adopt their “health” word from trees. John explains. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit lexiconvalley.substack.com