Skip to content

People banging away on their smartphones are fluently…

“People banging away on their smartphones are fluently using a code separate from the one they use in actual writing, but a code it is, to which linguists are currently devoting articles.” quote by John McWhorter
Download Open image
“People banging away on their smartphones are fluently using a code separate from the one they use in actual writing, but a code it is, to which linguists are currently devoting articles.”

John McWhorter

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Smartphone texting creates a distinct, informal code that differs from formal writing, prompting scholarly study.

In simple terms: Phone texting uses a unique informal code.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and adapt to different communication registers.

Themes

language technology communication

Mood

analytical curious

Type

academic observational

When to use this quote

  • texting
  • online forums
  • education
  • marketing

Key Concepts

code‑switching digital literacy linguistic evolution

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does code‑switching affect understanding?
  • When should you switch to formal writing?
A Different Perspective

The informal code can hinder clarity in formal contexts.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by John McWhorter

Explore all 22 John McWhorter quotes

More Actual quotes

Browse all 306 Actual quotes