by David Brown

Created on: October 05, 2009   Last Updated: October 06, 2009

Will text messaging destroy the English language? This is a good argument for both sides. There is a possibility that using language other than English or using interesting shorthand (SeeUl8tr) can really drive an individual crazy. How can we stop text messaging from destroying the English language? There is no way to do so. What this writer finds interesting is that those who text message often like to use shorthand because they just do not want to take the time to type on the tiny keyboards that the cell phones today have to offer. So, text messaging shorthand makes it easier and quicker to get the message across.

Today, the English language is probably one of the hardest languages for a newcomer to learn. For thousands, if not hundreds of words in the English language, there is more than one meaning to such words. Consider this string of words: there, their and they're. These three words sound exactly the same, yet, they have different meanings, not the same. So, really it is not text messaging per say that can destroy the English language. It is those who teach it who can destroy the English language.

Text messaging can actually help the English language. It is certainly a great thing to learn shorthand, but one text messenger has to realize is that another may not understand the shorthand. It is possible to create a new dictionary and have it available for download onto a computer or cell phone where everyone can understand the text messaging language much quicker. Text messaging is a form of language that has been around for some time, it is just catching on in the use of cell phones.

One of the problems that this writer believes should be addressed here is the use of text messaging while driving, even though this is not the subject of the article. What is necessary is this: do not text message while driving. Granted, this is probably why a new form of language has been formulated so those that do text while driving can use shorthand while they are sitting at a red light or while driving on the expressway. Still, this does not get you out of the fact that you can still have an accident.

Finally, do not punish someone who likes to create a new form of language. Text messaging is not easy. The cell phone key pads are small and they are hard to type on. This certainly leaves it open for a new language other than the English language to be used. So, in short, CUl8tr and hvagooday.

Learn more about this author, David Brown.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.