Why 'plz' might be pushing people away. How to write better thank-you notes. Studaloo
1085. Do abbreviations like “plz” and “ty” actually make your texts feel less sincere? New research suggests they might. We explore how shortened words affect how your messages are received — even in ...
27 Touko 202518min
Why simplified spelling nearly took over America (and why it didn't), with Gabe Henry
1084. This week, Gabe Henry talks about his new book, "Enough Is Enuf," and the long, strange quest to simplify English spelling. Learn why the "Chicago Tribune" made simplified spelling its house sty...
22 Touko 202531min
Why 'wake' is so confusing. The playful language of vacations.
1083. Is it "woke," "woken," or "waked"? We break down why the verb "wake" is one of the trickiest in English, with four competing forms and centuries of change. Then, we lighten things up with a look...
20 Touko 202518min
Ambrose Bierce, from ‘The Devil’s Dictionary’ to disappearing in Mexico, with Jim Norrena
1082. Copy editor Jim Norrena joins us this week for a conversation about Ambrose Bierce, his famous "Devil's Dictionary," and his darkly funny take on the world. We look at Bierce’s fascinating (and ...
15 Touko 202530min
Why 'epitome' is confusing. Quirky stories behind baby animal names. Alice doors
1081. Is an epitome a summary or a shining example? We look at why this word trips people up and how its meaning has changed over time. Then, we take a linguistic safari through the world of baby anim...
13 Touko 202518min
How YouTubers' voices evolve, with Andrew Cheng
1080. Linguist Andrew Cheng explains why people’s accents shift over time, especially when they move—and how YouTubers make perfect data subjects. If you've ever cringed at your old voice recordings, ...
8 Touko 202521min
What dictionary labels tell us about words. Why we say 'mama'. DU, STU, and LO.
1079. Ever wonder what labels like "informal," "archaic," or "offensive" mean in a dictionary entry? We explain how different dictionaries use labels to describe when, where, and how to use words. The...
6 Touko 202517min
The secret to writing ‘the same but different,’ with Mary Robinette Kowal
1078. Mary Robinette Kowal talks about going from writing magic-filled Regency romances to Hugo-nominated science fiction, what it's like to work with an agent, and how she keeps her career moving for...
1 Touko 202520min
