Why Does Language Matter?

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Language, is used in order to communicate, form opinions, problem solve, and establish interpersonal relationships. Through the accounts of Tannen, Sanders, and Hughes, they discuss the significance of certain words and the many interpretations conveyed by people of different perspectives. Most of the writers centered around the pragmatic aspect of language; the intentions of spoken or written expression. As well as, the semantics of language, also known as the study of defining language. Specifically, terms directed towards certain people, deriving negative connotations was shared. In addition, to the effects of words spoken between friendships and relationships. Adherent to current issues, language in it of itself, helps to communicate the …show more content…

Individually, the authors write an opinion on the matter through various analogies. According to Tannen, words can provoke a contrary intention. She uses the word bossy, as an example that a simplistic word such as this, can form a stereotype surrounding a specific gender. She continues on to say that famous female figures have been continuously labeled as bossy, when commanding an authoritative post. “In short, women at work are in a double bind: If they talk in these ways, which are associated with and expected of women, they seem to lack confidence, or even competence. But if they talk in ways expected of someone in authority, they are seen as too aggressive.” The author questions why this is so, since men are called to these positions as well, yet don’t receive near equal to the amount of backlash that women garner. She goes on to say that it’s the result from how adults engaged in play as a child. During childhood, girls are discouraged from getting their way through a directive motive. So, majority of women use words such as “’let’s …’ or ‘what you can do’ or soften the impact by making their statements sound like questions”. The writer encourages readers to stop this standard and to not set up different expectations for women exercising authority. This all starts how we address the personal women in our lives (Tannen pp.

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