Is texting hurting our Grammar?
Does it matter?
Is our language evolving like always has?
Or are we losing meaning, thus injuring the effectiveness of our communication?
Take a look at this and tell me what you think:
[Click for Larger]
WUT U THNK
[via OnlineCollege.org]
Chris Wilson says
Personally I’ve always taken a (more) descriptive rather than prescriptive view of Grammar (as in grammar as is used rather than Grammar as the “rule books”) say. There are some good reasons for this as otherwise we get “grammar rules” which are basically there to show the superiority of those who use them and distinguish from those who don’t.
Going back to the examples in the infographic I’d actually argue those are spelling rather than grammar differences and aren’t really all that new. Luv was first registered as an alternative spelling in the dictionary in 1899.
A stronger example of a grammar difference might be the increased use of “ellipsis” [cutting out words] in writing that has been common in speaking for a long time or the reduced use of commas which can hinder clarity (the classic let’s eat grandma vs let’s eat, grandma.)
In general, I’d argue that it’s just a different form of writing and people need to be taught the differences between forms of writing as they always have.
Eric Dye says
Great points, Chris. I love this!
Lauren Hunter says
Dude, Eric! What are the chances we’d post the same infographic on the same day? We must be on the same wavelength 🙂 Cheers, Lauren
Eric Dye says
🙂