This new slang, texting, is becoming more predominant over proper grammar when speaking and writing. It provides shortcuts and emotions on the fly. It simplifies explanations and promotes wide gaps in conveying thought.
Every language has its place and purpose. Every slang has its coolness and trendiness. The beauty of texting is your ability to carry on a conversation during times when you can't actually speak to someone on the phone or in person. For example, people use it while they are at school and work. They use it when they don't want other people to listen to their conversation. People also use it to bolster their confidence in communicating with others. It is a substitution practice for communication. We also use it as an avoidance tool. The more we do it, the more common place it will become. I have caught myself using it many times. I tell more people to text me now instead of call me on the telephone because I don't want to get "stuck" on the phone with someone.
Sneaky? Yes. Less stressful? Yes. Able to leap reality with a capital "R"? Yes.
But is our texting ruining grammar? We are definitely on the way. As we substitute our language for shortcuts, we lose value to our thoughts, feelings and expressions. We gain misunderstanding, misinterpretations and ineffectiveness. We do ourselves a disservice by simplifying our ability to communicate.
So what are we to do? Find the balance. Texting is only technological shorthand for speaking and writing. We need to know when it is appropriate to use texting rather than picking up a phone to speak to someone or convey our thoughts in writing. We need to know when it's the proper time to use shortcuts. We need to know when it's appropriate to convey the respect and attention that someone deserves.
As convenient as it may be, texting will never be able to overpower grammar because in order to effectively and purposefully communicate thought, the texting language can't quite "cut the mustard" so to speak.
BYW I m riting this @ my desk jic u r curious. CUL :)
Published by S Hall
I have been a corporate network administrator for the past 14 years and currently own and operate a web design business, www.sitetransformation.com. View profile
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