Blog Launch!

Welcome to Word Dig! The purpose of this blog is to share my passion for language with you, the eager public. Much of the upcoming content will consist of the exploration of interesting or obscure words, the etymological/historical origins of words, and links to other online resources regarding linguistics. Although this content will be largely focused on written/spoken English, since that is the subject matter I know best, the occasional foray into body language, signs, and other forms of language will not be unheard of.

"Why start a language blog?" you might ask. Language is what we use to communicate with one another, comprehend the world around us, formulate ideas, and basically function in any capacity as a sentient being. According to the Oxford Dictionaries website, (check the "Resources" tab at the top of the page) there are approximately 208,000 words in the English language that are in current use. Of those, the average adult vocabulary of known words can be tentatively set at around 50,000. Nobody can be expected to quadruple their vocabulary, but it is my belief that every new word or new understanding of an old word that someone learns is another step towards making better sense of life, the universe, and everything. If you've ever had a feeling or idea you couldn't put into words, those words probably exist and are just waiting to be found.

If you read this blog and take from it some interesting facts or simple entertainment, I will consider that a success. What I truly wish to do, though, is inspire you and others to become curious and think more critically about language. Everyone encounters and uses it every day, and by taking its analysis into your own hands you can shape and refine your perception of the world and your ability to communicate that perception to others.

Finally, If there's a resource, an interesting word definition or relationship, or anything else related to linguistics that you would like to share, please let me know and due credit will be given. Questions and comments are also greatly appreciated, so if there's specific question you have or a specific topic you'd like to see more of, be sure to make your opinion known. Be sure to share and enjoy!