Geoffrey Nunberg

Linguist Geoffrey Nunberg critiques the idea that linguistic sophistication hinges on how expansive or specialized a language's vocabulary may be.

Linguist Geoff Nunberg recently returned from a trip to France. He was initially confident in his French proficiency, but that feeling soon faded; in fact, he noticed his limited vocabulary affected how he thought, not just spoke.

The French government will officially simplify the spelling of several dozen words, claiming the change will make their national language more accessible and appealing to foreigners. Linguist Geoff Nunberg questions the efficacy of the initiative, and considers how countries define themselves through culture and legislation.

Linguist Geoff Nunberg says that the attention paid to how people talk says more about class status and regionalism than a decline in effective communication. He explains.

Linguist Geoffrey Nunberg explores how Shakespeare went from popular entertainment to highbrow culture.

Linguist Geoffrey Nunberg examines the current state of black english.

Linguist Geoffrey Nunberg examines what has happened to underworld slang. He says it no longer thrives the way it did in centuries gone by.

Linguist Geoffrey Nunberg explains Misapprehensions, a game for people who find Jeopardy too easy.

Computer word processing has changed the way writers think of their work. Linguist Geoffrey Nunberg was an early and enthusiastic convert to the new technology but now he is beginning to have second thoughts.

Language commentator Geoffrey Nunberg has some thoughts on the different accents you'll find in California. Not all of them are as distinctive as those of a "Valley Girl." (originally broadcast 3/9/88).