Geoffrey Nunberg

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).

Linguist Geoffrey Nunberg tells us why cursing ain't what it used to me. He explains how in Elizabethan times an oath carried with it the true fear of God. (Note: Nunberg uses some examples in this commentary, for example "Jesus Christ!" "Goddamn it," and "son of a bitch.")

Linguist Geoffrey Nunberg examines the difficulties of truth in translation.

Linguist Geoffrey Nunberg gives his views on Prince Charles' campaign to save the English language.

Linguist Geoffrey Nunberg puts together the meters of poetry and music with a game he calls, "Settings." (originally broadcast 9/28/88).

Linguist Geoffrey Nunberg considers the curious use of "Mr," "Ms," and "Miss."

Linguist Geoffrey Nunberg reviews a new book called "Doublespeak" by William Lutz, chairman of the Committee on Public Doublespeak of the National Council of Teachers of English. Lutz has been keeping files with examples of doublespeak used in politics and advertising and has compiled some of them in his book.