How language changes

• Random fluctuation theory


  Idea that language change is not a logical and ordered process - - - =- > Predicative text in birth of technology > 'cool' corrected and 'book', people used 'book' to say 'cool'
• Wave theory 


  Model of language change that likens it it to throwing a stone in a pond with ripples representing a change spreading from a central point
• Wave theory 



  Model of language change that likens it it to throwing a stone in a pond with ripples representing a change spreading from a central point

  > Wave Model:

  • New forms of language start at centre

  
• Diffusion


  The spread of features from the original user to a wider population
• Jean Aitchison - "Language change progress or decay"


  S Curve:

  • New forms of speech curve description view takes off at first
  • Curve plateaus, innovation becomes dominant but older forms may be in existence

  
• Innovation


  Creation of a new word, phrase, meaning or way of saying something

  • Sometimes initially perceived as a mistake
• Wave theory 


  


  Model of language change that likens it it to throwing a stone in a pond with ripples representing a change spreading from a central point

  > Wave Model:

  • New forms of language start at centre

  
• Spikes in language use


  When a word is used by influencer (e.g. celebrities) word used/language feature may acquire covert prestige

  
• Substratum theory

  Influences on different language forms come into contact with English

  • Happens mainly through languages of non native speakers or regional dialects coming into contact with English

  e.g. The Norman invasion of England 1066

  • Normans brought French into middle English language - French adopted into ruling class and into higher social classes who were linked to education and religion
• How language change is cemented


  1. SELECTION - language selected, variety selected, usually prestigious ones
  2. CODIFICATION - Reduction of internal variability, establishment of nouns, lexis and grammatical features/structures and spelling
  3. ELABORATION - Selected language is developed for variety of purposes - may involve expansion of linguistic resources
  4. IMPLEMENTATION - The standard must be given currency by making texts available in it encouraging users to develop pride and loyalty
• Ways which language borrows words/features


  1. Invasion - brings features of invading force's language
  2. Immigration
  3. Through media (e.g. dialects from TV shows)
  4. Through travel