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HappinessYou’ll learn
- Why "IDK" is more than just shorthand
- About the role of memes in language changes
- How emojis echo our physical gestures
- About the unspoken rules of typographic tone
Table of contents
first KEY POINT
Once upon a time, language used to be a combination of thoughts tossed back and forth in a perfect way
Speeches used to be preceded by lots of anxious preparations, while writing used to be in the form of books and newspapers and magazines and academic articles. Writing used to be an expression of ideas in the most proper and perfect form. However, long gone are those days! While edited and formal writing is still very much alive, unedited and unfiltered words, which used to be bound to oral expression, are now atop the charts. Writing has now become more conversational and informal. Everybody writes these days. And with the boundless creativity of Internet language, people no longer need editors. The days of lengthy writing processes are over.
Internet acronyms like IDK, which means “I don’t know,” reduce the number of letters you type when chatting with someone.
The digitalization of language has wholly transformed the art of writing from one where people get intimidated by blank sheets to one where everyone can fully express themselves more easily and comfortably. It’s the golden age of social acronyms, slang, memes, emoji, and other Internet communicational culture. And no matter the formality you’re used to, you should understand that this evolution of language is nothing but a welcome dynamic in the writing system.In this summary, you will get acquainted with the forces that shape our language and impact our communications with people. You will also get to know the similarities between emojis and physical gestures. Don’t expect to look at your Internet communications the same way after going through this tidbit.
second KEY POINT
Our peers are a significant influence on the way we communicate
Every generation has a particular language system they are familiar with. Social factors such as geographical location, parents, school, and peers largely influence the way we communicate. Most children grow up with the language traits of their parents because every family speaks its own dialect. These dialects could be misheard lyrics, onomatopoeia, and children’s coinages. However, our linguistic pickups broaden the more our environment widens. At school, we get exposed to social lifestyles that mix up with previously home–taught culture. Teenagehood is that stage where linguistic influence changes from parents to peers. Most individuals have access to social media at this stage, which is a powerful platform for linguistic influence. Hopefully, this explains how people learn how to swear despite most parents making enormous efforts to keep cuss words out of their children’s ears and mouths.
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first KEY POINT
There are five essential characteristics of Internet people who existed when the Internet came to the scene
second KEY POINT
Linguistic conventions are primarily rooted in a typographical tone of voice
third KEY POINT
Emojis and other Internet gestures were a much needed advent into Internet writing
fourth KEY POINT
There has been a shift in conversational norms as Internet culture keeps evolving
fifth KEY POINT
Memes are part of the budding Internet culture, and the Internet is more of a metaphor of language than books
sixth KEY POINT
Conclusion
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Frequently asked questions
What is Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language about?
Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language, authored by Gretchen McCulloch, explores how the digital age has transformed communication. It delves into internet language and its evolving grammar, offering insights into how social media and texting shape modern conversations.
What are the key takeaways from Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language?
Key takeaways include insights on how internet language reflects cultural changes, the impact of emojis and memes on communication, and the importance of context in understanding meaning. McCulloch emphasizes that digital communication is a natural evolution of language rather than a degradation.
Is Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language worth reading?
Yes, Because Internet is definitely worth reading if you're interested in language, linguistics, or the effects of technology on communication. McCulloch's engaging writing style and insightful analysis make it both informative and enjoyable for a wide range of readers.
How many pages is Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language and when was it published?
Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language spans approximately 288 pages and was published on August 6, 2019. It's a great read for anyone looking to understand the nuances of modern digital communication.
How does Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language explain the role of memes and emojis?
In her book, McCulloch explains that memes and emojis play a crucial role in conveying tone and emotion in digital conversations. They enhance clarity and add layers of meaning, showing how visual elements are now integral to text-based communication.