How have computers impacted the english language?

[Nathan H]

Hey I have to write a paper for english on how the english language was affected by computers (how it made it grow, new words, etc) and I was wondering if anybody could give me some ideas to write about or direct me to a page with more info.

[porthuronbilliam]

The computer, computer-related technolgy, and applications/uses have impacted the English language in a number of ways. We have gained more words, especially computer-related "jargon, as a result of computer technology such as, ROM, bytes, pixels, etc. We have new words for various components of the computer including keyboard, screen savers, etc. We also have new uses for old words like "mouse." Then, new programs and applications have also given us new words or new uses of words- Spam? Google? Twitter? Facebook? Even something seemingly as traditional as the word "e-mail" is a new word resulting from the computer. Furthermore, we have texting, IMing, etc. as a result of new technolgy and programs. Some other ways the computer seems to have impacted the English language is in a decline of proper, traditional English grammar and even some spellings; I think there are many reasons for this including the fact that most people using the computer for communication are younger and haven't learned "proper" English, the new technology is based on speed of use rather than proper spelling and grammar, and, there are numerous users from various countries interacting all in English. Also, words that were previously hyphenated such as e-mail, Wal-Mart, etc. (sorry I know there are plenty more but I can't think of them off the top of my head) that are more properly accepted without the hyphenated spelling. Misspellings and a lack of grammar have definitely resulted as people try to IM and text one another quickly; I know I'm as guilty as anyone. Think of all the text/IM abbreviations that are now finding their use into "traditional" English conversation like BFF, OMG, WTF, or LOL. You can also consider how the computer and related new technology has allowed people from across the country or around the world to communicate with one another. You have people talking with one another from various English speaking nations (the U.S,, Canada, England, Australia, various Caribbean nations, etc.) and even nations where English is taught as a second language. This constant interaction with people from around the globe creates shapes our language as new ideas from various other cultures are brought into use and need an English word equivalant, new words are introduced as users from different English speaking dialects interact with one another (for example, I live in Michigan but now know what a turducken is based on conversations with people in Texas. I also love to use the word whenever possible and have created my own phrase, "stuffed as a turducken," for example to say I'm really full). I could probably go on, but these are just a few of my random thoughts about how the computer has had an impact on the English language.