Language
Humpback whales sing the way humans speak
The animals’ complex songs share structural patterns with human language that may make them easier for whales to learn, a new study suggests.
- Emily Anthes
Latest
This year’s Spanish Scrabble champion? A New Zealander who can’t even speak the language
Nigel Richards lost only one of his 24 games and beat 147 competitors from around the world to claim the prize. The runner-up said his victory was a “humiliation”.
- Kyle Melnick
- Political Sketch
- John Pesutto
Note to Pesutto: Don’t mention the war
Two famously wry aphorisms warn against comparisons with Hitler or the Nazis in public arguments. Perhaps John Pesutto should have taken note.
- Tony Wright
- Explainer
- Gen Z
‘Peak popularity’: Why names go in and out of vogue
One of the earliest names ever recorded was Enpap-x. But Alexander and Freya are ancient too. Some names catch on, others fade from glory. Why? And what are the rules on trading in your name for a new one?
- Angus Holland and Angus Delaney
- Opinion
- Opinion
Is our language going down the toilet? My word!
The word of the year, dare I say it, is a symptom of our enshittified vocabulary.
- Cherie Gilmour
Sign of decline? Macquarie names its word of the year
Macquarie Dictionary’s choice just about sums up how we’re all feeling.
- Thomas Mitchell
Rebranding the green, green grass of Wales
In a burst of national pride, Wales is slowly purging the names the English bestowed upon many of its natural beauties. But not everyone is happy.
- Rob Harris
Original URL: https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/topic/language-6h8q