The Rise of 'Gift' and 'Gifted' in Modern Language

Over the past few years, I've noticed a significant upsurge in the usage of the words gift and gifted. As an English teacher in an international school in Turkey, this trend has become particularly noticeable among my students. These non-native speakers, who have only had English medium education, are incorporating these terms more frequently in their writing and speech. This article explores the reasons behind this linguistic evolution and discusses the implications for language learners and educators.

Observations from the Classroom

Recently, in a creative writing task, half of my students used the phrase 'I would like to gift you the violin.' Despite recognizing that this use is grammatically incorrect, I found myself repeatedly correcting them. Additionally, unconventional phrases like 'Oh my daze!' have become part of the vernacular, often replacing more traditional expressions. My inquiries led to a closer examination of the origins and usage of these terms, especially in relation to social media influences and popular culture.

Language Evolution and Usage

The term gift has historical roots as a noun, but its semantic range has expanded to include the verb form. This linguistic evolution is not unique; many nouns have similar verb counterparts. For example, the verb house derived from the noun house, and similarly, the verb room from the noun room. The verb gift embodies a similar transformation. Observations of its usage in legal contexts also indicate a shift in meaning, particularly in the context of estate planning where valuable possessions are being transferred.

Metaphorical Usage

In addition, the term gifted carries a more metaphorical meaning, often used to describe individuals with exceptional abilities. While gifted can be synonymous with giving in a literal sense, its usage in reference to abilities highlights the idea that these qualities are innate and not simply bestowed. For instance, terms like gifted musician or gifted athlete imply natural talent rather than something given.

Connotations and Changes

The increased use of gifted and gift also reflects a shift in societal values and cultural trends. In many instances, these terms are seen as positives and embraced. This evolution in language is often driven by the changing nature of communication, influenced by popular figures, and social media. Influencers, especially those like Mr. Beast, often pioneer new linguistic trends, which then filter down to younger generations.

Conclusion

Languages are dynamic and ever-evolving; terms such as gifted and gift reflect both the richness and complexity of our communicative practices. Understanding these changes is crucial for educators and language learners. As these terms continue to permeate our language, it's important to recognize the shifts in their usage and embrace them as part of a broader linguistic evolution.