Some words remain forever unacceptable in polite conversation or writing. The ‘C’ and ‘F’ ones, and of course the ‘N’ word.
Arguably, and it’s certainly something that has been argued about for many years, is that they are only words.
Of course this is true, but I would suggest it’s not even the meaning of such words that makes them objectionable. Most people know what the ‘true’ meanings of the three words used in the example above are. No, I would suggest that what makes such words objectionable to most of us is the reason why they are used, because most of the the time, it is as derogatory terms.
O
ne often hears complaints today about the way that young people use ‘text’ language as if it is the norm. While it can be useful when writing an SMS message limited to 160 characters, it’s really out of place in normal writing. Or is it?
Some observers worry that young people that text a lot will end up forever using these abbreviated, stunted words in their normal writing.
On the one hand, some feel it’s important to preserve the language in all its forms as pure as possible. On the other, language is not set in stone, whatever the text books of the day will have you believe, but it’s a liquid flowing living thing, that adapts with the times.
Does it matter if future generations end up writing or typing ‘r u ok 2day? ‘ if everyone else knows what it means? Isn’t language all about communication?
This argument was raging a century ago. Words like phone, auto, photo, exam, and gym were considered to be out of place in any ’serious’ writing. Such abbreviations were considered slovenly, common, and showing a lack of a good education. Nowadays, very few people sit, or take (depending on which side of the Atlantic you’re on), an examination, and who talks matter-of-factly about going to the gymnasium for a workout?
I’m sure, dear reader, that you can find grammatical errors in this article. I know I see them jump out at me when read books, magazines, and blog posts myself.
Whilst it is nice to ‘get it right’ perhaps at the end of the day, it’s more important to write, and to be able to read, something that was enjoyable and informative, and perhaps flowing, than something that is totally grammatically correct (I’m not sure if that is possible, when you listen to some scholars).
What do you think? I’m always interested to read your comments.
Latest Comments