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“People say that text messaging is a new language and that people are filling texts with abbreviations - but when you actually analyse it, you find they're not.” quote by David Crystal
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“People say that text messaging is a new language and that people are filling texts with abbreviations - but when you actually analyse it, you find they're not.”

David Crystal

About This Quote

Source Book: The Stories of English, by David Crystal, 2004

Text messaging is not a new language; despite abbreviations, it retains core linguistic structures, showing continuity in communication.

In simple terms: Texting isn’t a new language, just a style.

Key Takeaway

Recognize underlying language in digital chats.

Themes

language technology communication evolution

Mood

observational neutral

Type

linguistic technological

When to use this quote

  • everyday texting
  • language education
  • media studies

Key Concepts

linguistic adaptation digital discourse abbreviation usage

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do digital platforms reshape language use?
  • What aspects of texting differ from spoken language?
A Different Perspective

The view may downplay genuine linguistic change.

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