The Bastardisation of the English Language

It’s a common refrain: “The English language is dying.” Or, more dramatically, “Our language is being bastardised.” The culprits, according to the traditionalists, are a motley crew: social media, reality TV, politicians, corporations, and a woefully underfunded education system. But is this a fair assessment, or simply the nostalgic yearning for a golden age that perhaps never existed?

“So… are you mansplaining? Wanna reach out, grab a coffee, run it by me?”

Undeniably, the English language has undergone rapid and profound changes in the past two decades. The advent of the internet and the subsequent explosion of social media has introduced a lexicon that would have baffled our forebears. Acronyms, emojis, and neologisms proliferate at a dizzying pace. The once sacrosanct rules of grammar and punctuation seem increasingly optional, and the boundaries between formal and informal language blur by the day.

‘Mucho LOLs.. that’s so, like, eugh!’

It’s easy to view this linguistic upheaval with alarm. The precision and nuance of the language we cherish seem under threat. Politicians, eager to connect with voters, resort to simplistic soundbites and empty slogans. Corporations, driven by the relentless pursuit of profit, churn out bland, formulaic prose. And our children, inundated with a barrage of poorly constructed text messages and social media posts, struggle to write a coherent sentence.

“It’s my lived experience”

Yet, to dismiss these developments as mere degradation is to ignore the inherent dynamism of language. English has always been a malleable tongue, evolving to reflect the changing world around it. From the influx of Norman French after the Conquest to the Americanization of the language in the 20th century, English has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt and thrive.

“We gotten some leverage on this..”

Moreover, to decry the use of informal language in casual settings is to misunderstand its function. Slang, for example, is a vital tool for social cohesion. It creates a sense of belonging and identity, and it can be a rich source of creativity and humour. While it may not be appropriate in all contexts, it is a natural part of language use.

“.. eliminate the enemy with minimal damage to friendly territory”

Similarly, the rise of text-speak and other abbreviated forms of communication is not necessarily a sign of intellectual decline. In many cases, it is simply a practical response to the demands of modern life. Typing on a small screen is time-consuming, and people have developed efficient ways to convey information quickly.

“I’m gonna chill.. me an da homies gotta deplane.. then we headed..”

It is true, however, that there is a danger of losing the ability to communicate effectively in more formal settings. The decline of literacy skills is a serious concern, and it is essential that young people are taught the importance of clear and concise writing. But this is not an argument for the preservation of a bygone era of language use. Instead, it is a call for education that equips people with the tools to navigate the complexities of the modern linguistic landscape.

“Quick heads up. I’m good. My bad!”

Ultimately, the health of the English language depends on our ability to balance the demands of the present with the legacy of the past. We should celebrate the language’s capacity for innovation and adaptation, while also recognising the importance of preserving its core values. By fostering a love of language and encouraging critical thinking, we can ensure that English continues to be a vibrant and dynamic force in the world.

“JOMO.. sick as!.. clap back, girl! You iz da GOAT!”

So, while it may be tempting to lament the perceived decline of the English language, it is important to maintain perspective. The language is changing, but it is not dying. And while some aspects of this evolution may be regrettable, it is essential to remember that language is a living organism that thrives on adaptation.

“mic drop… I be like outtahere!”