Chapter 11

Verbal Diversity Among Americans

Age

As age increases, a person becomes more susceptible to persuasion

Certain physical changes (eyesight, hearing) often decrease making communication more difficult; adding more difficulty to intercultural communication

Possible increased chance for loss of face

Gender

MalesUse language to exert

control, protect independence, and negotiate their status

Forceful, direct, devoid of sympathy and understanding and task-related

FemalesSpeaking is a principle

way of creating and continuing relationships

Attempts to involve others in conversation

Seek confirmation and reinforce intimacy

Slang, Cant, Argot, Jargon

Slang – often made up to reflect the ideas and customs to keep up with changing times

Cant – slang used by members of organized crime

Argot – terminology used by professionals, especially used by crooks

Jargon – words or expressions used by a particular group or profession

Are usually only understood by those in the groups who use them (text, IM, etc)

Slang

MIRF - (merf) noun. acronym for Mom I'd Run From. The opposite of a MILF

Textrovert - One who feels an increased sense of bravery over texting, as opposed to in person

Flesh forks - Your bare fingers

Mobspeak: The Language of the Mafia (cant)

A friend of ours: mob shorthand for introducing one made guy to another made guy

Beef: a complaint or disagreement within the organization, usually discussed during a sit-down with higher-ups in the Family

Broken: demoted in rank; "knocked down.”