This time in Language Day we take on a more general approach to what it is to use a language, any language, in our daily lives. And we take on a specific item there, i.e. the simple expression “Language!” And the idea that it is a good idea to once in a while - and in some very specific circumstances - to check ourselves as speakers of a language. How do we express ourselves, how do we say things in ways that may be interpreted by others as offensive?

Language can be such a powerful tool. And sometimes words unspoken can be the most powerful tool there is. We are all language technicians, using the language as a tool that it is.

We all know what “Language!” - with the exclamation mark in the end - means in American films. The speaker should watch their language as what they just said would be considered either offensive, vulgar, hurtful or otherwise devoid of respect.

Surely if there was no self-censorship, we might hear that word many times a day as we share the same space with other people. Like in public transportation, waiting in queues, watching the news, taalking with friends etc. Anywhere where people are reacting to something. And we too might want to shout Language! (especially as seniors, agewise or otherwise) but mind our tongue for fear of criticism or so as not be seen as uptight. And also for the simple truth that it most probably wouldn’t really change anything.

Also, words and phrases that are considered offensive in your own language may not seem that offensive in others. And vice versa. Some rude words have also become so commonplace that you become almost numb to them, but when you hear them used in another language, you may take them more literally, and wonder at the same time do people really talk like that in that country and culture. Or is it actually a rude expression there too? So you leave it at that - a mystery.

So, we do get used to most anything. And being a language police is such a tiring task. But once in a while, we may want to say off, especially in cicumstances where we have the full right to do so. Like facing a customer whose language is so demeaning that we do have the right - and almost a moral responsibility - to straighten the person out. And perhaps leave them feeling that people do care. That we do care about how we are, how we seem and how we act. Don’t we?

Be that as it may, let’s round off with some scenes from the Avengers:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfhbBsFEptI&ab_channel=WonderWoman

Updated 29.7.2022