Lexicon Valley

Lexicon Valley
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7 snips
Jun 10, 2024 • 30min

Family Ties

Explore the origins of Proto-Indo-European language through the Yamnaya people, the complexities of ancient languages like the Hittite language, and the unique sound changes in language development. Delve into the intriguing Hindi number system with unexpected changes and challenges in numerical naming conventions.
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Apr 30, 2024 • 36min

Going Deep

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.
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Mar 18, 2024 • 28min

Come Under Scrutiny

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.
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Dec 30, 2023 • 31min

Have Your Own Damn Self a Merry Little Christmas

Reflexive pronouns are redundant in a way, sure, but they’re also quite common in many languages. X: @lexiconvalleyFacebook: facebook.com/LexiconValleyWebsite: booksmartstudios.com/LexiconValley Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Nov 6, 2023 • 33min

When Did People Start Talking?

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.
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Sep 29, 2023 • 35min

Who's Afraid of Ayesha Rascoe?

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.
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Aug 21, 2023 • 29min

What Is Miami English?

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.
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Jul 17, 2023 • 32min

Report of the Trial of Levi Weeks

The trial transcript of a 225-year-old murder is filled with fascinating evidence of the way we used to talk. X: @lexiconvalleyFacebook: facebook.com/LexiconValleyWebsite: booksmartstudios.com/LexiconValley Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Jun 9, 2023 • 33min

I Got My Nails Did!

Many English verbs have three forms — sing, sang and sung, for example. The problem is that speakers seem to want only two. X: @lexiconvalleyFacebook: facebook.com/LexiconValleyWebsite: booksmartstudios.com/LexiconValley Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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May 9, 2023 • 30min

To v. Too

Too — whether about excess, addition or contradiction — evolved from to. X: @lexiconvalleyFacebook: facebook.com/LexiconValleyWebsite: booksmartstudios.com/LexiconValley Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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