Language Use Essay

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‘ S O C I E T Y D I C TAT E S O U R U N D E R S TA N D I N G O F A P P R O P R I A T E O R I N A P P R O P R I AT E L A N G U A G E U S E ’ Society plays a rudimentary role in influencing the use of appropriate language; it acts as guideline and helps us know what to think, how to act, and how to express these actions and thoughts in a language that is appropriate for the context, furthermore, the language we use demonstrates our own beliefs and cultural norms. These guidelines are most relevant within the public arena; where new topics and ‘rules’ arise to alter the appropriate or inappropriate use of language. The use of profanity, the context in which we speak, how we say what we wish to convey, the use of politically correct language and the euphemistic nature of language all act as signposts to the world in which we live. The use of profane language, publicly, has become engraved within our society. The use of inappropriate language is widespread throughout the media, Radio host Kyle Sanderlans often brings up taboo topics and foul language when conversing with guests on his show. Another example of this is on TV Programmes ‘Jersey Shore’ and ‘Geordie Shore’, these shows and the use of inappropriate language supports the use of profanity in the public arena. Not only has the media accepted the use of inappropriate language, the Australian Government has also. Examples include the recent VicRoads Ad campaigns, ‘Don’t be an Idiot’ and ‘You bloody idiot’ are just some examples from their safety campaigns. The use of profanity, in fact, closes the social distance between people and affirms group solidarity. This is why the VicRoads Ad campaigns were so successful, the profanity used within the ads, allows them to relate to younger drivers, which was the main target audience. If society did not create these “guidelines” we would not see the use of
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