Presented by Jonathan Bertowitz
In this two-part series, explore the origin and the misuse of the English language.
Sept 15.
The Origin and Evolution of English
What is the origin of the English language? We read and speak it every day, but do we think about its history of vocabulary, grammar, syntax, spelling, and meaning? Where do words come from? What exactly is a “word” and why do we spell and pronounce them the way we do? What is grammar? How have meaning, spelling, and pronunciation changed over time?
Sept 22.
Entertaining English—When the Language Goes Wrong
When English is used properly and well, communication flows, reducing or eliminating misunderstandings. But when language goes wrong, either unintentionally or intentionally, hilarity can ensue. Unintentional humour comes from words being mixed up or misused and poorly constructed sentences. Intentional humour comes from all manner of wit.
Bio: Jonathan Bertowitz is a consulting statistician and recently retired UBC professor. For 11 years he is the Word Guy on CBC Radio talking about the English language. He has written two general interest books: The Whirled of Words: Puzzling Past and Present, and Tales From the Word Guy.