The Unaliving of Language?

Language is constantly evolving, influenced by the world around us. New words emerge, old ones fade, and how we communicate shifts with each passing generation. From slang to technological jargon, the words we use reflect the times we live in. But lately, it feels like something else is happening. Words are being softened, simplified, and even replaced – sometimes in ways that strip them of their original impact. Some might say we’re witnessing the slow killing of the English language – or perhaps, in today’s terms, we’re unaliving it!

How “Unalive” Started the Conversation

I first came across the term “unaliving” on a podcast, and it immediately piqued my curiosity. After a conversation with colleagues, I learned that it has become a popular replacement for words like “dead” or “kill,” particularly in online spaces. The reason? Algorithms.

Many social media platforms and content-sharing sites are designed to flag, demonetise, or downrank content that includes certain sensitive words. As a result, creators and users have developed workarounds – one of which is replacing words like “kill” with the softer, algorithm-friendly term “unalive.” It’s a fascinating example of how language is shifting in real-time, adapting not just to social norms but to the demands of technology.

A Long History of Simplification

While it’s easy to point to social media or algorithms as the culprits, the truth is that language has been simplifying for centuries. Shakespeare’s English is rich and poetic, but much of it sounds unfamiliar to modern ears. Over time, words have been shortened, meanings changed, and phrases streamlined. Even before the internet, trade and migration significantly influenced language shifts. As cultures interacted, they often borrowed words from one another – or “loanwords” – words like ninja, ballet, patio and chocolate!  Words can also change meaning over time – and that’s sick!

However, today, technology is one of the most significant drivers of language change in the 21st century. As we increasingly communicate through digital platforms, algorithms scan for certain words, determining what content gets boosted or buried. Words like “unalive” are created to sidestep these algorithms, allowing people to talk about sensitive topics without triggering censorship.

But it’s not just algorithms. Social media has led to a culture of immediacy, where quick, catchy phrases and memes take precedence over detailed, thoughtful dialogue. The language of the internet prioritises speed and simplicity, which can sometimes come at the expense of nuance. This shift is reflected not only in our online conversations but also in how we speak and write in everyday life.

Is Nuance Being Lost?

This shift brings with it an important question: what do we lose when we start altering language to fit the rules of an algorithm? On the one hand, adapting our language helps to navigate online platforms more effectively. On the other hand, it risks watering down the richness of our communication. Words like “unalive” may serve a practical purpose, but they also dull the emotional and real-world impact of more direct terms like “kill” or “death.”

One could argue that this creates a veneer of politeness or softness, but in doing so, we might inadvertently strip away the nuance and depth that language is meant to convey. The shift to algorithm-friendly speech can make difficult conversations more palatable, but it also risks glossing over the gravity of certain topics.

Language Trends in Business Communication

For businesses and professionals, adapting communication styles to align with generational and digital trends is crucial for staying relevant and maintaining engagement. Younger audiences often expect a more dynamic, trend-driven form of language, especially online. However, leaning too heavily into these trends can pose a risk – not just in terms of clarity and authenticity, but also in potentially alienating older generations who may find this new language unfamiliar or even off-putting.

Finding the balance is key. While it’s important to communicate in a way that resonates with audiences, especially in a digital landscape, organisations must also ensure they’re not leaving behind those who value more traditional forms of communication. Whether in marketing, client interactions, or internal discussions, language should remain inclusive, maintaining both the richness and precision that ensure messages resonate across all age groups.

What Can We Learn from This Evolution?

The way language is evolving reflects broader societal changes. In today’s world, convenience often takes precedence over complexity, with digital platforms heavily influencing how we communicate. The lines between professional and casual language have become increasingly blurred, particularly in online spaces. However, this isn’t necessarily negative. Language has always adapted to its surroundings, and in this particular era, those surroundings happen to be digital and fast-paced.

While embracing new trends is inevitable, it’s important to remain mindful of the power and precision that language can offer. Words aren’t just a means of expression; they shape the way we connect with others and make sense of the world. As language continues to evolve, the key is to balance innovation with clarity, ensuring that our communication remains effective, meaningful, and inclusive.

Conclusion

English continues to evolve, with around 1,000 new words being added each year. This ongoing evolution is driven by technology, which has accelerated the process and, in some cases, simplified our communication. While some people view this negatively, it’s actually part of a long history of language adapting to the needs of its time. What we see today is simply another chapter in how we speak and write.

The challenge lies in ensuring that, even as language shifts, we don’t lose the depth, nuance, or precision that makes communication meaningful. Whether we’re adopting new trends or preserving more traditional forms of expression, we must remain mindful of how words impact our ability to connect, engage, and understand each other.

What happens when the algorithms start learning the new words – who knows!  What is clear is that language will continue to grow, change, and surprise us.

https://www.theguardian.com/media/mind-your-language/2016/feb/04/english-neologisms-new-words

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/z87pn9q