other language change theories

what is Hocketts random fluctuation theory

change is driven by the occurrence of random errors in language → these errors can be standardised and recognised as synonymous e.g. typos

what is Chens S curve model

describes a situation where a new form is slow to take off, then there is a tipping point where the increase starts to accelerate rapidly and then flattens out again

what is functional fit theory

the idea that language changes because society does- new inventions need new terms

what is Baileys wave model

the graph shows how a new form spreads from a geographical and social space → the further you are from the coinage, the less likely you are to use it

what is substratum theory

language changed mainly through contact with other languages e.g. various uses of like from american english

what is Pinkers euphemism treadmill

when a politically correct term is introduced but then it becomes prorated so there is a need for a new neutral term

what is reflectionism (Saphir and Worf)

language reflects the society that produces it e.g. PC language

what is determinism (Saphir and Worf)

language determines the way we think and behave- it constructs our view of the world