Geoffrey Nunberg

Linguist Geoff Nunberg explores the place factoids have in our lives -- those bits of information that pass off for facts but aren't actually verifiable.

Linguist Geoffrey Nunburg says that, unlike classic Victorian writers, contemporary authors don't intend for their work to be read aloud. But that doesn't stop actors from doing it -- and often in uncomplimentary ways.

Linguist Geoffrey Nunberg examines the trend of Americans trying to affect a highbrow, British style -- for example, by using the word "shall" instead of "will."

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

Linguist Geoffrey Nunberg examines the difficulties of truth in translation.

Language commentator Geoff Nunberg says that many popular expressions and cultural references stray far from their origins. But knowledge of this trivia has little use in regular conversation -- so he and a college friend made a game of it.

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 examines the blurbs on book jackets...those hyperbolic quotes that declare seemingly every new book to be "a blockbuster" or "runaway best-seller." (Rebroadcast of 11/08/1989)