Podcast Summary
Communication patterns shaped by cognitive and social factors: Cognitive and social pressures influence how we speak and evolve languages, with social media and groups like black Twitter creating new lingo, and certain sounds being dispreferred in some languages.
Our communication patterns are shaped by both cognitive and social factors. Languages naturally evolve due to underlying cognitive and articulatory pressures, leading to simplifications and changes in pronunciation. However, social pressures also play a role in which of these pressures we succumb to, based on our social identities. For example, social media has influenced the way we speak, and certain groups, like black Twitter, have been at the forefront of creating new lingo. Languages can also have dispreferred sounds, like the "th" sound in English which many languages do not have. These pressures are constant and impact all speakers and languages. Valerie Friedland, a sociolinguist, studies these patterns and how they vary based on social facts that are much smaller than language differences. Understanding these pressures can help us communicate more effectively and feel less nervous about our vocal tics. Ultimately, the vibe and energy of how we deliver things is more important than the specific precision of our words.
Language change reflects the evolving nature of human communication: Language change is a natural process that doesn't make a language less valuable or complex, but rather reflects the social contexts in which it is used.
Language change is a natural result of social pressures and interactions, and it doesn't necessarily mean that languages are becoming simpler or more straightforward. In fact, some languages may lose complexity over time due to the larger number of speakers and the need for easier acquisition by non-native speakers. However, this doesn't make the language less valuable or complex in its own right. For example, Old English had many complex morphosyntactic and phonological patterns that have since simplified, but English is still a powerful language that has enabled great achievements in technology, science, and culture. The pressures on language have been present throughout history, and they continue to shape the way we communicate today. It's important to remember that language change is a normal part of human society, and it doesn't make a language less valuable or complex. Instead, it reflects the evolving nature of human communication and the social contexts in which it takes place.
Language simplification and complexity: Languages evolve with historical context and speaker community size, resulting in varying levels of morphosyntactic and phonological complexity.
Languages, especially widely used ones, simplify over time due to the pressures of language acquisition by older learners and the need for efficient communication. However, this isn't always the case, as languages can also become more complex through contact with other languages. The complexity of a language refers to its morphosyntactic and phonological features, and while English may have lost some morphosyntactic complexity by losing endings, it gained lexical or pragmatic complexity through a more fixed word order. The evolution of language is an ongoing process, and the complexity of a language is influenced by its historical context and the size of its speaker community. For instance, small languages with few speakers tend to be more complex as they are designed for communication within a tight-knit group. Ultimately, the simplification or complexity of a language is a balance between efficient communication and the ability to express the full range of human thought and experience.
The Gradual Process of Language Change: Language change is a continuous process involving the transmission of complex rules and sounds from one generation to the next, resulting in subtle but significant shifts over time.
Language change is a complex process that occurs gradually over time, particularly when it comes to the transmission of intricate rules like morphosyntax. This process happens as children learn their native language from their parents and other adults, who may pass on inconsistencies that simplify the language for future generations. Morphosyntactic changes, such as new endings or pronouns, can be difficult for adults to learn, and these changes have occurred throughout history. For example, English has undergone several shifts in its pronouns since the Middle English period. Moreover, there are universal aspects of language, such as filled pauses, which are sounds like "um" or "ah," that are found in all languages, although they may differ slightly. The reasons for these similarities across languages are still a subject of debate among linguists, but it may be related to the physiology of the mouth and the way the brain produces sounds. In summary, language change is a continuous process that involves the transmission of complex rules and sounds from one generation to the next. While some changes, like the adoption of new words, may be noticeable to the general public, others, like shifts in pronunciation or morphosyntax, can be more subtle but significant in the long term. Understanding this process can provide valuable insights into the nature of language and its evolution over time.
Filler Words: Indicators of Cognitive Processing: Filler words, such as 'um' and 'ah,' serve multiple functions in different languages, including acting as pauses or indicators of cognitive processing. Their usage tends to correlate with the complexity of the task at hand and may have roots in proto-languages.
Filler words like "um," "ah," and "and" serve multiple functions in different languages, but often act as pauses or indicators of cognitive processing. The sounds these words make, such as the nasal "ano" in Japanese or the central "and" in English, may have evolved due to their ease of production and non-distracting nature during moments of thought. Filler words are not merely signs of uncertainty or hesitation, but rather, they signal the brain's active engagement in complex cognitive tasks. In fact, their usage tends to correlate with the difficulty of the task at hand. For example, in more formal or complex contexts, such as the workplace or academic settings, we may use more filler words as we strive to impress others with our vocabulary and articulate complex ideas. The evolution of filler words may have roots in proto-languages like Proto-Germanic and Proto-Indo-European, as many languages share similar sounds and structures. The use of demonstrative pronouns as filler words in languages like Chinese and Japanese further highlights the adaptability of language to meet specific communicative needs. In summary, filler words are essential components of various languages, serving as indicators of cognitive processing and aiding in the smooth flow of communication. Their origins may be rooted in the ease of production and the need for a non-distracting sound during moments of thought.
Filler words have cognitive benefits: Filler words like 'um' and 'ah' aid speech planning, signal turn completion, and enhance listening for speakers and listeners.
Um's and ah's in speech, while not socially desirable, actually have significant linguistic benefits for both speakers and listeners. From a cognitive perspective, these filler words help speakers with speech planning and signal to listeners when a turn is not yet completed and how long to expect a delay. For listeners, these words facilitate faster recognition and prediction of what is being said, better new information processing, and improved memory retention. However, in social contexts, such as presentations or speeches, where we expect a high level of preparation and rehearsal, um's and ah's may be perceived negatively as a sign of a lack of preparation or uncertainty. This creates a complex dynamic where linguistically beneficial speech features may not be socially desirable. Ultimately, it's important to remember that many linguistic conventions, such as the use of filler words, are not inherently bad but may have become socially stigmatized over time. So the next time you notice someone using um's or ah's in their speech, try to remember the cognitive benefits they bring to the table.
Filler words and silent pauses in communication: Filler words signal ongoing speech and aid comprehension, while silent pauses can lead to confusion. Both have positive and negative interpretations depending on context.
Filler words like "um" and "ah" serve important functions in communication, but their negative social interpretation often overshadows their purpose. These words indicate that the speaker is thinking through what they want to say, and while hesitation may be perceived as a sign of uncertainty or incompetence, it can actually be a positive sign of thoughtfulness and consideration. Research has shown that filler words can aid comprehension, as they give listeners a signal that the speaker is still speaking and not finished yet. Silent pauses, on the other hand, can be confusing and lead to misinterpretations. However, the use of filler words in formal presentations or debates can be strategic, as they provide the speaker with valuable thinking time and prevent interruptions. In casual conversation, silent pauses can be more effective in conveying meaning and allowing the conversation to flow naturally. Ultimately, the interpretation of filler words and silent pauses depends on the context of the communication and the relationship between the speakers. By recognizing the functions of these verbal cues and considering the specific context, we can improve our understanding and appreciation of effective communication.
Signaling turn-taking and encouraging active listening: Effective communication includes using transition signals to indicate when it's someone else's turn and backchanneling to encourage active listening through verbal or non-verbal means
Effective communication involves both verbal and non-verbal cues, including transition signals and backchanneling. Transition signals indicate when it's someone else's turn to speak, and backchanneling involves encouraging the speaker through verbal or non-verbal means. Backchanneling can be as simple as nodding or making affirmative sounds, and it shows active listening and support for the speaker. However, in certain contexts, such as interviews or formal settings, backchanneling may not be appropriate as it can interrupt the flow of speech. A famous study from the 1980s suggested that men tend to use backchanneling less than women, but this may have changed over time and could also depend on personality types. Overall, using a combination of verbal and non-verbal cues can help ensure clear and effective communication.
The Use of 'Like' in Speech Varies Based on Factors: Personality type, sociocultural background, and gender can impact how often someone uses 'like' in speech. It has quotative and discourse marker uses, with younger speakers under 40 using it more frequently.
The use of the word "like" in speech can be influenced by personality type, sociocultural background, and even gender. More conscientious people tend to use more discourse markers, including "like," according to studies. The word "like" has various uses, including as a quotative verb and a discourse marker. Quotative uses of "like" indicate that the speaker is not making a verbatim quote but rather approximating or estimating what was said. Discourse marker uses of "like" serve to convey the speaker's perception or intensity of a situation. Younger speakers under 40 tend to use "like" more frequently than older speakers, leading to a generational divide in its acceptability. The word "like" has a long history, dating back centuries in British speech, and its use in the 1980s by Valley Girls in the United States was a reflection of an existing trend rather than its origin. Despite criticisms from grammar mavens, the various uses of "like" serve valuable communication functions.
The history and usage of 'like' in language: 'Like' is a common discourse marker among young speakers, but its interpretation varies among age groups and settings.
The word "like" has a long history, dating back to the 1700s, and is commonly used by younger speakers as a discourse marker to express subjective sensibilities and estimations. Its prevalence in youth speech is often referred to as age grading, which tends to decrease as individuals enter the workforce and mature. The social interpretation of "like" varies among age groups, with it being normalized in young people's peer groups but potentially perceived negatively in more formal settings. The speaker expressed frustration with the concept of "talking stages" in dating, which she finds inconsistent and confusing. While some may view the excessive use of "like" as a sign of immaturity or lack of intelligence, it's essential to remember that it's a natural part of language development and learning for younger generations.
Understanding the Use of 'Like' and Vocal Fry in Speech: Sociolinguist explores the meaning and impact of 'like' and vocal fry in speech. Learn where 'like' is used and replace it with alternatives. Understand the implications of vocal fry and modify usage if desired.
The use of the word "like" and vocal fry in speech are subjects of fascination and concern, particularly for young women. The word "like" is often seen as a signifier of a cool, hip, and relaxed urban vibe among young people. However, excessive use can be noticed and criticized. As a sociolinguist, the speaker appreciates the purpose and power behind the use of "like," recognizing it as a quotative, approximate adverbial, or sentential adverbial. For those looking to reduce their use, understanding where it's brought in and replacing it with alternatives like "exactly" or "about" can be helpful. Vocal fry, on the other hand, is a feature characterized by a crackly or poppy noise at the end of words, most notably in women's voices. While it may not have negative implications for all, it can be perceived negatively and professionally concerning for some. Understanding these speech patterns can provide individuals with the tools to make informed decisions about their usage, allowing them to justify or modify their speech as desired. As a sociolinguist, the speaker finds these phenomena fascinating, but as a mother and concerned citizen, she recognizes the potential consequences and wants to help equip people with the knowledge to navigate these issues.
The Complexity of Women's Vocal Fry in Professional Settings: Women face pressure to adopt lower-pitched voices in professional settings, but using vocal fry can have both positive and negative effects on their perceived attractiveness and competence.
Creaky voice, also known as vocal fry, is a way some people alter their vocal pitch by bunching up their vocal folds, making them thicker and heavier, resulting in a slower and irregular vibration. This phenomenon is more noticeable in women, particularly in professional settings like broadcasting, where there has been pressure for women to adopt lower-pitched voices. However, using vocal fry can be a double-edged sword for women, as they risk being perceived as less attractive with lower pitches, but more professional and competent with a higher pitch and a touch of vocal fry. This pressure to conform to certain vocal standards is a complex issue with deep-rooted historical origins. Understanding the science behind vocal fry and its social implications can help us challenge these harmful stereotypes and create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all voices.
Perception of Vocal Fry: Old vs Young, Male vs Female: Young women see vocal fry as urban, professional, and relaxed, while older speakers and traditional media view it negatively. Men use it more than women in British English-speaking populations. Perception is influenced by societal norms, generational differences, and evolutionary biases.
The perception of vocal fry, a vocal pattern characterized by a creaky or breathy voice, varies greatly between younger and older generations and genders. Young women tend to view it as urban, professional, and relaxed, while older speakers, particularly those who listen to traditional media, may view it negatively. However, research shows that men use vocal fry at higher rates than women in British English-speaking populations. This perception of vocal fry as a negative trait for women in professional contexts may be influenced by societal biases against women's voices. Additionally, the shift towards less formal language and the rise of social media have contributed to changes in language use, with more nonverbal communication occurring than ever before in history. Evolutionary psychologist David Putz has researched the relationship between vocal pitch and dominance, suggesting that lower vocal pitch is associated with larger vocal folds and perceived size and strength. This can be seen in animals making low growls or roars to assert dominance. Overall, the perception and use of vocal fry, as well as other language trends, are influenced by a complex interplay of societal norms, generational differences, and evolutionary biases.
Social media amplifies language trends: Social media spreads linguistic trends, making them popular and shaping how we communicate.
Social media plays a significant role in disseminating language changes that already exist in communities, rather than inspiring new innovations. The impact of social media on language is largely due to its ability to spread trends and speech styles, making it a powerful tool for cultural influence. For instance, words or phrases can go viral and become popular among various demographics, not necessarily because of their originators' intentions, but due to the resonance they hold for different groups. This resonance can stem from a desire to emulate certain qualities or stereotypes associated with the originators of these linguistic trends. Social media's influence on language is not a new phenomenon, as informal language use has been a long-standing trend throughout history. The 18th and 19th centuries, for example, saw a shift away from formal language use. Social media serves as a platform that amplifies these trends and makes them accessible to a broader audience, ultimately shaping the way we communicate.
Language evolves with cultural shifts, including increasing informality: Language reflects societal norms, with modern language becoming more casual. Black Twitter influences mainstream language, but its use in formal settings can lead to misunderstandings and negative outcomes.
The evolution of language is closely tied to cultural shifts. Formality in language is not an absolute, but rather a relative belief that varies across time and cultures. The increasing informality in modern language is a reflection of our more casual society, and this trend is not a sign of decline but rather a natural progression. Moreover, there is a significant influence of Black Twitter on mainstream language, with trends and expressions originating from this community often spreading widely. However, the interpretation and application of these expressions can be problematic, particularly in formal settings such as legal proceedings. The use of African American English, for instance, can lead to negative outcomes for speakers in trials. It's essential to recognize the complexity and nuance of language and its relationship to culture and context.
The Evolution of Common Greetings: Common greetings like 'hello' and 'goodbye' have complex histories, originating from formal expressions to casual everyday use, and evolving through competition and shortening for convenience.
The evolution of common words like "hello" and "goodbye" is not as straightforward as we might think. These words have gone through various transformations over time, from being formal greetings to casual everyday expressions. For instance, "hello" was originally used as a way to get someone's attention on a ship before it became the standard greeting for answering the phone. "Goodbye," on the other hand, evolved from "god be with you" to simply "goodbye." Another interesting example is the word "hello," which was in competition with "ahoy" when the telephone was first invented. Bell and Edison had different ideas about what should be used as a way to get someone's attention on the phone, with Bell favoring "ahoy" due to its maritime origins. However, "hello" eventually won out because it was suggested in the first phone book as a way to answer the phone. Similarly, the word "hi" is believed to be a shortened form of "hello," and they share similar sounds that make them easy to shout at loud volumes. Words often evolve through the process of speakers shortening things for convenience, especially in intimate settings. From a linguistic perspective, these words are not unique in their sound symbolism, as all words contain vowels. However, the study of linguistic archeology, which involves examining the historical development of language, is a fascinating field that sheds light on the rich history and evolution of the words we use every day.
Understanding the social impact of language sounds: Language sounds like glottal stops and r's can carry social stigmas, revealing societal norms and changing attitudes towards speech over time
Linguistics, specifically in the field the speaker is involved in, is a fusion of sociology and linguistic anthropology. It involves studying language changes over time through historical documents and modern speech by interviewing people. One fascinating aspect is that certain sounds, like the glottal stop or the absence of r's, can carry strong social stigmas. For instance, the speaker mentioned their personal experience of being criticized for not having r's in their speech, which is considered pretentious in America but was once considered bad English in Britain. Similarly, glottal stops are a natural part of speech but are often criticized when they occur in certain places. The speaker's research focuses on understanding why these sounds elicit such strong social reactions. Additionally, historical linguistics reveals that societal norms around speech can change over time, such as the shift in attitudes towards r-dropped speech in Britain. Overall, the speaker's work sheds light on the cultural and social dimensions of language.
Embracing unique qualities in career: Using personal qualities like accent for career advantage, reflecting on identity and career choices
Accent can be a valuable asset in certain professional contexts. Valerie Friedland, a sociolinguist, shared her personal experience of using a British accent as a competitive advantage in her career. She also discussed the challenges she faced during Independence Day last year, which made her reflect on her identity and career choices. If you're interested in learning more about sociolinguistics or Valerie's work, you can check out her book or visit her website, valeriefriedland.com. There, you can read her other research and even participate in a study. Overall, Valerie's story highlights the importance of embracing our unique qualities and using them to our advantage in our careers.
