I can recall when the notion of using the word “text” as a verb sparked considerable debate. “How on earth are we meant to conjugate it in the past tense?” we’d exclaim, incredulous. “You mean to say ‘I texted’? That’s absurd.” According to Merriam-Webster, the verb form of “text” first appeared in 1998, and now it rolls off our tongues without a second thought.
Since texting emerged, some linguists have claimed it threatens the integrity of the English language. John Sutherland, a Professor of Modern English Literature at University College London, labeled texting “penmanship for illiterates” in a 2002 article in the Guardian, dismissing emojis as mere “face symbols.” He even predicted texting would soon be obsolete, suggesting it would fizzle out in a year or two. Well, some predictions certainly don’t age well.
Language is Always Changing, and Texting is Part of It
Sutherland’s overconfidence about the future of language serves as a cautionary tale for those of us who tend to complain about how younger generations communicate. Gretchen McCulloch, author of Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language, argues that texting is simply another mode of communication, integral to language evolution. She explains that texting has its own set of rules and conventions, which vary based on context: older adults text differently from teenagers, and we communicate with friends in a different manner than we do with coworkers.
The focus of communication has shifted as well. McCulloch remarked, “The old rules are about using language to display intellectual superiority, while the new rules emphasize using language to foster connections.”
Periods Are Considered Aggressive?
Recently, a friend posted a question on Facebook: “Both of my teens think periods in text messages are ‘aggressive.’ Are they broken?” After 228 comments, it was clear there was no consensus, but trends emerged: younger users view a period as akin to a death stare, while older folks argue that periods simply indicate the end of a sentence.
Having sent my fair share of texts, I find myself agreeing with the younger crowd: I often omit periods, and when someone replies with one, I pause to interpret the context to determine if they’re annoyed or just precise with punctuation. McCulloch explained this phenomenon, noting that as texting evolved, the period was frequently dropped. In formal writing, a period marks a sentence break, but in texting, hitting send serves that purpose. Thus, to a young person, “awesome” conveys excitement, while “Awesome.” might read as sarcastic.
Texting is Not Destroying Grammar
In an episode of her podcast “Lingthusiasm,” McCulloch tackled the claim that texting is ruining language. A 2012 study had suggested a link between time spent texting and declining grammar skills, which the media widely circulated without scrutinizing the research. Upon closer examination, linguists found the correlation statistically insignificant and related to grade level, with students only required to complete a brief grammar test. Their writing ability—how well they articulated their ideas—wasn’t even assessed.
Numerous studies, including one from Indiana University–Purdue University in 2010, indicate that informal text language does not predict poor formal writing skills. In fact, that study found that students who texted frequently tended to perform better in grammar, spelling, and reading fluency tests.
More Writing, More Expression
It’s logical, then, that kids are writing more than ever. They’re constantly expressing themselves through written words. While their texts might appear chaotic in terms of grammar and punctuation, this doesn’t mean they lack writing skills. As a professional writer, I can attest that my personal texts differ greatly from my more polished work on a computer. I often disregard spelling and grammar rules on my phone, but when I’m typing on a keyboard, I naturally follow conventional rules. My kids do the same, juggling informal text messages and formal school writing with ease.
Language Evolution is Rapidly Accelerating
Our increasing connectivity means language is evolving faster than ever. Each year, new words are added to Merriam-Webster, and our digital interactions facilitate the swift spread of words and phrases. Platforms like Urban Dictionary help older generations grasp younger slang, often leading to its rapid loss of coolness. Texting has essentially become its own language, complete with unique expectations and meanings, holding equal value to formal written English in sharing ideas. Our children will continue to impress us with their ability to switch between casual text language and the formal language required for academic writing, showcasing their creativity in generating new terms faster than we can keep up.
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In summary, texting isn’t a threat to language; rather, it represents its evolution. The way we communicate continues to change, adapting to new technologies and social dynamics. Younger generations are not undermining language; they are reshaping it in ways that reflect their unique experiences and connections.
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