When individuals refer to using “proper” language, they mean using standardised English, which is taught in educational centres, used in academic work and formal settings. However, this ignores the reality that English has different registers used in various contexts; formal, casual, conversational.
Language is a dynamic reflection of the past, present and future around us. Declaring one kind of language to be “better” than another ignores the diversity in language. Critics of modern slang may argue that it is “ruining” English, yet this argument has been made for centuries.
For example, the word “knight” was pronounced k-neecht, with a hard “k” in Old English. As the pronunciation evolved throughout time, the “k” sound faded and we know pronounce the word very differently. This change may have been considered irresponsible at the time, but it is now standard practice (can be seen in other words like isle). Similarly, contractions like “can’t” and “don’t” are now often used in speech, despite being considered lazy in the 18th century.
Shakespeare, now considered the master of the English language was once criticised for coining words such as “bedazzled” and “eyeball”. These same words are now everywhere. If we look at more recent times in the 20th century, words like “cool” and “groovy” were considered redundant when they were first introduced. These instances all demonstrate how resilient language change is. What appears inappropriate or transient frequently becomes the standard, enriching rather than degrading the language.
We wouldn’t have any language at all if language was “ruined” each time it changed. Rather, we have inherited a dynamic living system that adapts to the demands and inventiveness of its users. Every generation has its own idiosyncrasies in language, many of which are accepted throughout time.
By claiming that language is a living system, we infer that it does not follow a set of fixed rules. Its main function is communication, and will adapts to the speakers’ needs. Our current speech patterns are a reflection of the centuries-long process of linguistic adaptation. Innovation frequently replaces what appears to be “decay”—new words, phrases, or grammatical constructions appear to close gaps, increase productivity, or reflect societal changes. Language evolves because humans evolve, and this adaptability is essential for keeping up with the constant changes around us.
Slang
Slang, is a key driver of linguistic growth. It often fills gaps and challenges norms. It can be incredibly expressive and convey ideas or feelings that formal language finds difficult to convey. For instance, “ghosting” encapsulates a certain interpersonal behaviour that could otherwise need a long explanation. Other words like “slay” or “lit” conveys an entire mood or cultural context that might take a formal phrase multiple sentences to achieve. It also tests the adaptability of language by pushing the limits of syntax and grammar. Once stigmatised, expressions like “ain’t” and “gonna” are now frequently used in casual speech. English has also absorbed influences from countless external sources like loan words such as; “karaoke” from Japanese, “yoga” from Sanskri and other phrases from pop culture like “the tea”.
Language and Technology
Advances in technology also shape the way we speak and write. The internet has brought languages from around the world closer together and brought about some of the most noticeable changes, much like the printing press did in the 15th century when it standardised spelling.
Abbreviations like lol (laugh out loud), brb (be right back), and omg (oh my God) became popular as texting and social media increased. The demand for brevity in character-limited systems such as Twitter or SMS further promoted the influx of these phrases. The introduction of visual signals added non-verbal meaning to communication. Text alone may find it difficult to convey tone, mood, or context; an emoji can help. In a text, for example, “ok” could come out as abrupt, whereas “ok 👍” or “okieee” seems friendlier.
The terms used to describe new technology are evolving along with them. Although they were nonexistent a few decades ago, terms like “selfie,” “vlog,” and “streaming” are now common. This demonstrate how profoundly technology is ingrained in our lives.
Language’s ability to evolve is what keeps it alive. Imagine how much more difficult it would be for us to convey sophisticated modern concepts if English hadn’t developed. Instead of “diluting” English, these innovations enhance it.
Language shift resistance may be caused by the educational system, power dynamics, and nostalgia.Formal language is frequently associated with authority, whereas slang can indicate informality or rebellion. Its important to understand that both formal and informal language have their place. An academic paper requires precise, formal language. A tweet or a conversation with friends thrives on informal language.
The ever-evolving characteristic of language isn’t something to fear but to celebrate. Language evolves because humans evolve. Every generation adds its voice to the story of communication. Far from “ruining” language, slang and informal speech keep it vibrant, adaptable, and alive.
If the absence of “art thou” hasn’t damaged modern English, why should we be concerned about “sus” or “ya”? Language will keep changing to reflect the needs, creativity, and identities of its speakers.
Language is a reflection of the human experience, and just as people grow and change, so do the means of communication. We ought to welcome English’s development as a spontaneous and imaginative process.Every generation adds to the language, guaranteeing its continued usefulness in a world that is changing quickly. English’s ability to adapt and change is one of its greatest strengths, not a weakness.
