In this response I am going to analyse each point Isabelle Kerr has made on the introduction of slang words in the English dictionary. Isabelle Kerr argument is that the introduction of slang words into the English dictionary such as “twerking, vom butters, selfie” and lots more, is bad because she feels it portrays a bad image on the younger generation. Also she feels that because of these words the young generation will be remembered in a bad way, as it represents our contribution to the language as not useful as these words have no meaning. Where centuries ago words were invented that actually are useful and which people still use in today’s language.

Isabelle Kerr is against the type of language our generation speaks today. One of the points that she made and that I personally disagree with is “As a member of the younger generation, partly responsible for these linguistic calamities, I can only apologise. I am embarrassed and ashamed. It doesn’t reflect well on young people.” Speaking from the view of a young teenager I am offended by this because I feel we should be praised for our creativity. I also feel that the younger generations are showing a clear sign of intelligence, because it shows they are able to speak, type and write in both formal and informal way. Another point Isabelle Kerr made is that she said ” Shakespeare will be turning to his grave” But this is incorrect because Shakespeare  created words that we still use in this generation, possibly even words Isabelle uses herself on a daily basis. For example Shakespeare created phrases and words like “Hurry and seen better days” So Shakespeare would be proud to see that his words and phrases are still being used, and will continue to be used from generation to generation.

Also she mentions that the reason youth employment is low we have no idea how to talk appropriately. We are fully aware of when to use slang, which has no relevance to our employment rate. But economically there’s isn’t enough jobs available for us. Isabelle also states that the dictionary needs a “reality check” but the dictionary’s job is to record and give a definition to all popular words being used. But not once has it ever questioned the words being used, which shows it agrees with the use of these words. So it looks like she is the one that needs a “reality check”.

Another false point that Isabelle made was about the TV programme “Countdown” and that it wouldn’t be too happy about removing the vowels from the word ‘seriously’ ” But I disagree because it may encourage them to include these slang words on their programme. Giving people the chance to add to the dictionary by dissecting each words to create new ones.

Overall I feel that Isabelle Kerr is wrong, because by including the words into the dictionary is smart as it allows everyone to access and use these words. Also I think it’s smart because it shows a sign of creation of a new language and knowing when to use the different words is intelligent, giving people the opportunity to speak freely and more laid back without having to spell out those long winded words. For example in formal language when making a conversation they would say “What are you up to?” but in slang or an informal way they would say “Wassup” which means the same thing. They both have the same meaning but “Wassup” is much easier and simpler as it is to say multiple times. I think that if Isabelle accepted change and wasn’t so narrow minded she too would be able to appreciate modern slang.