Dept. of Linguistics

Is the Cantonese language under threat?

Is the Cantonese language under threat?

The Cantonese language is spoken by millions around the globe, but UBC linguistics researcher Zoe Lam says societal and government pressures mean it could disappear within a couple generations.

Apr 28, 2015

Learning a new language doesn’t have to be kids’ stuff

Learning a new language doesn’t have to be kids’ stuff

Why do adults struggle to learn a new language? A UBC expert says it’s not for lack of trying. In fact, it may be the opposite.

Sep 10, 2014

Study finds nothing so sweet as a voice like your own

Study finds nothing so sweet as a voice like your own

A new UBC study finds we prefer voices that are similar to our own because they convey a sense of community and social belongingness.

Feb 19, 2014

Batten down the hatches! Arrr you going to talk like a pirate on Sept. 19?

Batten down the hatches! Arrr you going to talk like a pirate on Sept. 19?

In advance of International Talk Like A Pirate Day on Sept. 19, UBC Linguistics Prof. Molly Babel explains why pirates talk that way, or at least why we think they talk that way

Sep 17, 2013