The speed of language change

The English language can be understood by speakers who live centuries apart, suggesting that its core vocabulary and grammar has remained consistent for quite a long time. However, in the short term, many changes can happen very quickly!

Read the two tweets below and discuss:

• Do you know the meaning of each neologism?

• Suggest a reason why each one has entered the English lexicon.

• What do you think the lifespan of these terms will be? Are any of them likely to be permanent?