Complete sentences, where did you go?
Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at 6:52 AM When did we stop speaking in complete sentences? Last week I met a friend for breakfast and next to our table sat three people probably in their mid thirties, dressed in business attire. Because the tables were so close it was difficult not to hear what they were saying. I realized that I was not having issues hearing their conversation, but understanding what they were saying.
The banter went something like this:
Business person #1 said, “About the meeting.”
Business person #2 rolled their eyes and muttered, “Really?”
Business person #3 laughed and said, “Seriously.”
Business person #1 nodded their head and answered, “Right?”
I thought they were playing a game of charades. They all seemed to understand what the other was saying and this went on for maybe 30 minutes. They left before we did, which was probably a good thing because my head was about to detach from my neck after listening and trying to decipher their ping pong game of dialogue. My friend agreed and we continued to converse in complete sentences. It went something like this:
Friend said, “How are you doing? It seems like forever since we last got together. I have a lot going on and would love to hear your perspective.”
I said, “I am well. It is really nice to see you! I am excited to hear about what is happening in your life, and happy to help.”
We had a nice time talking in complete sentences.
I get that sometimes one word responses are appropriate. But when did this phenomenon of trading “one worders” originate? I blame it on the adolescent stock response to parental direction of any kind, “Whatever.” That word has been banned from use in our household. Couple this word with eye-rolling, and you have a combustible combination. I digress.
Try using spell check with “one worders.” It will indicate that it is a fragment. Ha!
I certainly hope that these “one worders” won’t replace the art of conversation. It’s almost as if texting has stunted not only our vocabulary but our willingness to engage in lively discussions. Can we not be bothered to participate in a meaningful conversation where we may learn something, be entertained, or stimulated? Really?
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