A project called Speak for Yerself Scotland has been looking into why Scottish people speak the way they do since 2022. The project has captured over 7000 Scots speakers’ voices, helping researchers understand various language variations across Scotland. For example, why people say words like “youse” or “oot” in certain regions.
Now, this project is expanding to Ireland and Wales in partnership with Newcastle University and Cardiff University. This expansion marks a significant milestone in mapping language differences across these regions. Professor Jennifer Smith, the project director at the University of Glasgow, emphasizes the dynamic nature of language and the importance of capturing how people speak in informal settings with friends and family.
In the Welsh project, researchers aim to uncover differences in language use, such as whether people say “daps” or “plimsolls” for sports shoes. In Northern Ireland, participants will be asked about phrases like “pure ragin” or “gutties.” Similarly, the Republic of Ireland project will focus on phrases unique to the region, like “actin’ the maggot.”
The findings from the Scots project have been fascinating, revealing unique Scottish expressions and traditions. Despite concerns about Americanization, Halloween traditions like “guising” remain prevalent in Scotland. Professor Smith is eager to see what insights the new sites in Ireland and Wales will bring to our understanding of language use in the 21st century.
In Northern Ireland, Professor Karen Corrigan and Dr. Mary Robinson are leading the survey, while Dr. Louis Strange is leading the Republic of Ireland project. They aim to document the differences between the Celtic Englishes of these islands and celebrate linguistic diversity. The researchers hope that these resources will empower people to use their unique language varieties proudly as part of their cultural heritage.
Dr. Louis Strange highlights the rich linguistic history of Ireland, influenced by various languages and home-grown phrases. This interest and passion for language make Ireland a treasure trove for linguists. Professor Mercedes Durham and Dr. Jonathan Morris at Cardiff University are leading the Wales extension of the project, aiming to uncover differences in English as spoken across Wales.
The project’s expansion to Ireland and Wales will launch on Thursday, October 31, 2024. This initiative will provide valuable insights into language variations and cultural heritage across Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, highlighting the importance of preserving unique language varieties.