The Meanings of Words Should not be Allowed to Vary or Change

Peter Trudgill

This myth deals with the definitions of certain words that will change over the years. For example, disinterest meant unbiased in the olden days, whereas nowadays it would mean a lack of interest. Even though purists are against these changes, they cannot go against it. Whenever the vast majority would use the words in the wrong context, it would be regarded as the wright usage of the word. The native speakers would be confused if you would still use the word with the old definition, as they would regard the new meaning as the definition of that certain word. Because the language evolves, words tend to change yet the people understand each other.

I do agree with the writer, due to the changes of the language over the year. Evolving is a natural thing, seeing that it is necessary for survival. Just like the natural selection, some words die out, whereas others would change. Even if you against these changes, it will inevitably cross your path during every communicative activity you have.