Digest

This podcast delves into the multifaceted nature of the word "like" in language, addressing the concerns of a college student who feels self-conscious about her frequent use of it. Sociolinguist Valerie Friedland sheds light on the various functions of "like," including its use as a quotative, a discourse marker, and a linking device, emphasizing its importance in conveying meaning and facilitating communication. She traces the historical evolution of "like," highlighting its increasing popularity in the 80s and 90s, particularly among younger generations. Valerie also explores the societal perceptions surrounding "like," explaining why it is often disliked and associated with imprecision, excessive use by teenagers, and stereotypes about young women's language. Public speaking coach Rhonda offers practical advice on reducing the use of "like" in formal settings, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and reframing the perception of "like" as a sign of unsophistication. She encourages listeners to embrace their unique communication styles and focus on their strengths rather than conforming to societal expectations. Rhonda provides practical tips for reducing "like" usage, including pausing, inhaling, shifting gaze, and swallowing, while emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, grace, and being comfortable with occasional use of "like." Ultimately, the podcast encourages listeners to own their communication styles and embrace their unique qualities, focusing on effective communication rather than avoiding a single word.

Outlines

00:00:00

The "Like" Dilemma: A College Student's Concern

The episode begins with a call from Allison, a college junior, who is bothered by her frequent use of the word "like." She shares a story about a third grader who criticized her for using "like" too much, highlighting her insecurity about sounding sophisticated and mature.

00:01:16

The Many Faces of "Like": Exploring its Functions

Sociolinguist Valerie Friedland explains the various functions of "like" in language, including its use as a quotative, a discourse marker, and a linking device. She emphasizes that "like" serves important purposes and is not simply a filler word.

00:17:36

"Like" Through the Ages: Its Evolution and Prevalence

Valerie discusses the historical use of "like," tracing its origins back to 15th century England. She explains that "like" became increasingly popular in the 80s and 90s and continues to be prevalent in modern speech, particularly among younger generations.

00:21:39

The "Like" Stigma: Societal Perceptions and Language

Valerie explores the reasons why "like" is often disliked, attributing it to its association with imprecision, excessive use by teenagers, and societal perceptions of young women and their language.

00:28:14

De-Liking Your Vocabulary: Tips for Formal Settings

The episode introduces Rhonda, a public speaking coach, who offers advice on reducing the use of "like" in formal settings. She emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and reframing the perception of "like" as a sign of unsophistication.

00:33:55

Embracing Your Communication Style: Beyond "Like"

Rhonda encourages listeners to embrace their unique communication styles and focus on their strengths rather than trying to conform to societal expectations. She emphasizes that effective communication is more important than avoiding the word "like.

Keywords

Q&A

• What are the different functions of the word "like" in language?

  "Like" can serve as a quotative, a discourse marker, a linking device, and an approximating marker. It can be used to report speech, emphasize, connect ideas, or indicate similarity.

• Why is "like" often disliked, and why is it associated with younger generations and women?

  "Like" is often disliked due to its association with imprecision, excessive use by teenagers, and societal perceptions of young women and their language. These perceptions are often rooted in stereotypes and biases.

• How can we reduce our use of "like" in formal settings?

  Rhonda suggests reframing our perception of "like" as a sign of unsophistication, practicing pausing, inhaling, shifting gaze, and swallowing to replace "like" with other communication strategies.

• What is the most important aspect of communication?

  Rhonda emphasizes that effective communication, including the ability to connect with people and express oneself clearly, is more important than avoiding the word "like."

• How can we embrace our communication styles and own our unique qualities?

  Rhonda encourages listeners to focus on their strengths, communicate intentionally, and embrace their unique communication styles, regardless of societal perceptions.

Show Notes