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Midterm Paper

English

Chrystal Slowley

March 23, 2015

In Seth Mydans’ essay, “Texting Shorthand Annoys Purists and May Have Lasting Impact,” he shows how the new abbreviated language has both good and negative affects. Although I am for the abbreviated use of words in texts, which has made communication more efficient and easier to convey thoughts in writing in a concise way, I also believe it to be wise to consider that it can possibly take away from others’ knowledge of the English language if used in a formal setting.

Texting is an efficient way of communication. Much of today’s society is busy and cannot find the time for a simple phone call. Some are working, whether from a facility or home, and speaking to their friends and loved ones may conflict with their jobs; the convenience of texting makes that task more doable. Normally during a phone call, you have to stop what you are doing to engage in the conversation you are having with the person. It can also be a distraction from the work more you’re trying to complete. With texting, you are not confined to have your phone in your hands at all times and you are able to respond at whatever time you are available. Simple greetings like “SUP (what’s up),” can incite conversation, and to minimise the deadness writing and reading can have, “LOL (laughing out loud),” can put the humor back into texting.

Texting is also an efficient way to convey one’s thoughts. Usually when someone is trying to communicate thoughts and concerns, it can turn into a long rant. Texting has an abbreviated style of words that hold the same meaning, but shorten the amount of characters needed to say what has to be said. A short text like “xoxoxoxoxo-hugs and kisses,” can make a statement of love, or “WUBMV,” broken down to mean, “will you be my valentine?,” can convey romantic interest on Valentine’s Day. Abbreviations like that can soothe the pressure that comes with talking to others on a sentimental level, or even just meeting someone new and trying to start a friendship.

However, texting can take away from learning if used in a formal setting. Some abbreviations or texting styles are not widely common, which is why they’re usually used amongst family or friends. For example, if a students is being taught the English language in an English class, it would make sense that the student utilizes what they’re been taught for said class. Allowing the use of abbreviated jargon outside of where that language is typically used can make the shorthand use of language in the forefront of one’s mind, and everyday language a second thought. Judy Turner’s ironic statement that, “ skoolz r there 2 educ8 + raze litracy 2 certn standards,” goes to show that not everything is permissible everywhere. Although the abbreviated texting style is “another wonderful example of how language grows,” it should only be another extension of language used in more casual settings.

Texting is and can be a growing and great way to communicate with others. Its efficiency has allowed for people to communicate without the hassle of actually speaking and stopping a task. And although it should not be used for every setting, one being a formal setting, it should be used to communicate thoughts and feelings to a close or new friend and family.