Language Change

Question 1

English language..

Answer 1

Has been shaped over time,
A language doesn’t simply stand still.

Question 2

Prescriptivists.

Answer 2

Believe there’s a correct way to use language,
Seek to preserve standard forms,
Consider standard English and RP superior.

Question 3

Robert Lowth

Answer 3

Published first English grammar book in 1762,
Set out rules for ‘correct usage’,
Argued some constructions are grammatically wrong:
- multiple negation (“you don’t know nothing”)

Question 4

Johnathan Swift

Answer 4

Sought to ascertain and improve the English language,
Thought it was in chaos,
Criticises young sociolects (“fam”).

Question 5

Descriptivists

Answer 5

Seek to objectively observe and record language as it is used, not to judge.

Question 6

Aitchinson

Answer 6

Considers omission (“wa’er”) and assimilation (“dunno”) as natural occurrences in many languages.

Question 7

Aitchinsons metaphors.

Answer 7

-Damp spoon: some people believe language change is caused by sloppiness and laziness.
-Crumbling Castle: some see English language as a beautiful old building that needs to be preserved.
-Infectious disease: we “catch” language change from those around us. Links to convergence.

Question 8

David Crystal

Answer 8

Internet has increased the rate of language change,
Against the idea that only young people use text talk and it’s ruining the English language,
Used metaphor of a tide to describe how language is always changing and disappearing.

Question 9

Pejoration

Answer 9

Word takes on a different more negative meaning, so losing status.
“Idiot” meant private citizen but now means stupid person.

Question 10

Amelioration

Answer 10

Word takes on a different more positive meaning, gaining status.
“Pretty” meant “sly” but now means “attractive”