Babelification

Language, as a social instrument, is more than its content. It’s also a signifier defining the speaker. Therefore language, whether expressed as slang, dialects, patois, or accents, is a marker of cultural identity. The language you use signals to other people: am I like you? Do we come from the same place? Do we share perspectives?... See more

Language is one of the strongest markers of belonging. Our accent and vocabulary reveal our place of origin—and often our class, education, and community ties. When we alter them, people notice. Those who have experienced it understand. Those who haven’t may see it as “changing who you are.”