A new study finds that people speak less in everyday life than they used to. The researchers report that people lose about 338 spoken words each year. The decline has continued for at least fifteen years and was found by comparing speech totals over many years, not by a single short snapshot.
The lead researcher tried to repeat an earlier 2007 study about talkativeness and, during that work, saw a wider pattern of decline. He and a colleague examined how changes in daily routines and technology might change everyday conversation. The researchers say more study is needed to learn the causes and long-term effects on relationships, work and well-being.
Difficult words
- researcher — person who studies and tests ideasresearchers
- decline — a fall or decrease in amount
- compare — look at two things for differencescomparing
- talkativeness — how much a person talks each day
- routine — regular activities done every dayroutines
- technology — tools and devices used in daily life
- well-being — a person's physical and mental health
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think you speak more or less now than before? Why?
- How might technology change everyday conversation in your life?
- What effects could speaking less have on work or relationships?
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