bailey's wave model (1973)

Question 1

what does Bailey suggest in the wave model?

Answer 1

• Bailey suggested that geographical distance has an effect on language change.
  Those closest to the epicentre of a language change will adopt new language faster than those further away.

Question 2

what metaphor does Bailey use for change?

Answer 2

• uses a metaphor for change: a stone hits a water surface and creates ripples; the closer to the centre, the stronger the ripple, or those near the epicentre of an earthquake will feel the tremors more than those far away.

Question 3

how does this wave model make sense in the real world?

Answer 3

for example, a word adapted or adopted by multicultural youths in London is unlikely to affect white middle class speakers in Edinburgh, as they are removed from the epicentre both culturally and socially.
- social media could be used as an argument against the model as it has led to instant communication.