Is Language Evolving or Devolving? A Discussion on the True Meaning and Overuse of Words

Language is a living, evolving entity that consists of rich history and usage, yet it often faces criticism for its ever-changing and sometimes perceived misuse. While the constant evolution of language can make it vibrant and dynamic, it also leaves us questioning the 'true meaning' of words and whether we are using them appropriately. In this article, we explore how words like decimate, handwritten manuscript, and like have evolved and why language change is necessary, not harmful.

Evolution of 'Decimate'

The word 'decimate' is an excellent example of a term whose true meaning has been largely lost due to overuse and misinterpretation. Originally, 'decimate' meant to reduce by one-tenth or kill every tenth man, reflecting its Latin roots. However, nowadays, people commonly use it to suggest massive damage or near-total destruction, which is a significant deviation from its original usage.

The misuse of 'decimate' highlights a broader issue in language - how overuse may not equate to misuse. Simply because a word is used frequently does not mean it is being used incorrectly. In fact, frequent use of a word often indicates its relevance and usefulness in modern communication. This touches upon the heart of the debate: should we adhere strictly to the original definition of words, or should we embrace the current context and evolving usage?

Manuscript: From Manual Writing to Modern Rejection

Manuscript is another word whose true meaning has been virtually forgotten. The term 'manuscript' literally means 'written by hand,' implying a handwritten document. Yet, in the digital age, publishing companies often reject handwritten manuscripts in favor of typed submissions. This raises questions about the utility and value of adhering strictly to traditional definitions versus embracing modern conventions.

The question arises: is the overuse of words harmful? Not necessarily. If a term is being used frequently by many people and serves a practical purpose in communication, then its widespread use can be seen as a sign of its usefulness. Language is a tool; its evolution should be viewed as a natural progression rather than a flaw. By accepting and adapting to the changing usage of words, we ensure that language remains relevant and functional in a rapidly changing world.

The Ubiquity of 'Like': A Critical Analysis

The word 'like' also exemplifies the fluidity and adaptability of language. It has transformed from a verb meaning 'to love' or 'to enjoy' into a pause noise, essentially serving as a filler word. Upon observation, especially in younger generations, 'like' is used so frequently that it becomes almost inaudible. For instance, teenagers often pepper their sentences with 'like' to the extent that it's sometimes difficult to follow the thread of their conversation.

The argument that the original meaning of a word should be preserved to maintain clarity is misconceived. In a dynamic society, language must evolve to meet the evolving needs and contexts of its users. For example, the phrase 'was like' is often used as a substitute for 'said,' conveying a sense of the manner in which something was said. This usage actually adds color and nuance to the communication, making it richer and more engaging. The notion that certain forms of communication, such as the use of 'like,' are harmful is a misunderstanding of how language actually functions.

Language as a Tool for Communication

Language change can be seen as a natural and necessary process. It allows terms to adapt to their new contexts and ensures that communication remains clear and relevant. If a large enough group of people adopt and use a word in a new way, that usage can become the "true meaning" in that time and place. Different meanings, such as the example of 'nice,' 'dude,' and 'naughty,' illustrate how language evolves over time. 'Nice,' originally meaning foolish and silly, has shifted to denote pleasant. 'Dude' used to mean fool, but now signifies a friend. 'Naughty,' historically meaning nothing, now suggests a bit of mischief.

Another example is the word 'absurdity,' which was originally about musical dissonance but now describes something silly or out of place. Similarly, 'girl' once referred to any child, male or female, but is now used only for females. These shifts in meaning are not random or confusing, but rather a natural part of how languages adapt to new contexts and changing societal norms.

Geographical and Temporal Variations in Meaning

In addition to evolving over time, words can also have different meanings in different regions or places. In the United States, 'momentarily' means "almost immediately," whereas in the UK, it means "very briefly." For instance, an American pilot saying "We’ll be taking off momentarily" means "We’ll be taking off very soon," while a British pilot saying the same sentence means "We’ll take off and immediately land again." Words like 'fag' and 'rubber' also have vastly different meanings in the US versus the UK, highlighting the importance of context in understanding language.

To summarize, language is neither devolving nor overuse negatively impacts its function. It is a dynamic system that adapts to new contexts and user needs. Words evolve, contexts shift, and meanings change, all of which are natural processes. By acknowledging the fluidity of language, we can appreciate its richness and adaptability, ensuring that it remains a powerful tool for communication.