Varieties & Registers of Spoken and Written Language

Summary

In this episode of 'John and Wildlings at the Videos,' the focus is on the nuances of spoken and written language, emphasizing the importance of effective communication in a globalized world. The video discusses the dynamic nature of communication and the necessity of cultural competence, which involves sensitivity and awareness of different cultures. It differentiates between spoken and written language based on context, purpose, and characteristics, such as dialogue vs. monologue, presence of an interlocutor, and the permanence of written records. The episode also explores the varieties of spoken language, including interactional, referential, expressive, transactional, and emphatic, providing insights into the diverse ways language serves different communicative needs.

Takeaways

• 🌐 Globalization and technological innovation have made communication fluid and dynamic, affecting how we engage in international and transnational communication.
• 🌟 Cultural competence is crucial for effective communication, involving the ability to use language appropriately and show sensitivity and awareness towards different cultures.
• 📚 Learning the language of another culture does not always equate to understanding their culture deeply; cultural features can be learned, but sensitivity and awareness require attitudinal change.
• 🗣️ Spoken language is characterized by dialogue, the use of human voice and gestures, and the presence of an interlocutor, making it spontaneous and momentary.
• 💬 The varieties of spoken language include interactional, referential, expressive, transactional, and emphatic, each serving different social and communicative functions.
• 📖 Written language is distinguished by the absence of an interlocutor, being more organized and explanatory, and having the ability to be preserved indefinitely.
• ✍️ The writer of written language has the opportunity to correct and improve the text, which carries a greater volume of responsibility compared to spoken language.
• 🔍 The context and purpose of communication are key factors that differentiate spoken from written language, influencing the style and format used.
• 📚 In education, developing intercultural competence involves learning about different cultures and how to behave appropriately within them, which is not always taught by language alone.
• 📝 Written language requires careful organization and detail, making it a more permanent record compared to the ephemeral nature of spoken language.
• 🤝 Engaging in communication across cultures requires an understanding of the varieties and registers of both spoken and written language to be effective.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is the varieties and registers of spoken and written language, focusing on the differences between them and how to be effective in communication in both forms.

Why is it important to understand the differences between spoken and written language?

Understanding the differences is important because it helps us engage in international or transnational communication effectively, adapting our language use to various contexts and purposes.

What does the term 'fluid communication' refer to in the context of globalization and technology?

'Fluid communication' refers to the dynamic and ever-changing nature of communication processes, influenced by globalization and technological innovation, making it more dynamic and less static.

What is cultural competence in the context of language and communication?

Cultural competence is the ability to use language appropriately and conform to another culture's norms, showing sensitivity and awareness, which is crucial for effective intercultural communication.

How does learning a language relate to understanding a culture?

While learning a language can provide insights into a culture, it does not necessarily teach one sensitivity and awareness or how to behave in certain situations, which are key aspects of cultural competence.

What are the five varieties of spoken language mentioned in the video?

The five varieties of spoken language are interactional, referential, expressive, transactional, and emphatic.

What is the main characteristic that distinguishes spoken language from written language?

The main characteristic is that spoken language is mostly maintained in the form of dialogue and utilizes human voice and gestures, while written language is a monologue that is carefully organized and explanatory.

What are some examples of intensifying words that can be used in spoken language?

Examples of intensifying words in spoken language include adjectives, adverbs, and sometimes even curse words, which can be used to emphasize a point or express strong emotions.

How does the presence or absence of an interlocutor affect spoken and written language?

In spoken language, the presence of an interlocutor is assumed as it involves direct dialogue, while in written language, the absence of an interlocutor is typical as communication is through text without immediate interaction.

What is the significance of the term 'emphatic' in the context of spoken language varieties?

The emphatic variety of spoken language is used to induce goodwill or open a good conversation, serving to lighten the mood or break the ice, which is important for maintaining open communication lines.

How does the permanence of written language differ from the transience of spoken language?

Written language has the ability to live forever as long as it is stored or preserved, unlike spoken language which is spontaneous and momentary, often without a physical record.