E-mail and proper English

[Randi]

I can understand why close friends use these abbreviations in text messages on a cell phone, or in an IM chat if they’re in a hurry, but in my opinion, it doesn’t belong in an e-mail!
So I agree with this:

If I send a text to my best friend that says, "C U in 5", that's alright. She knows I mean "See you in five minutes", and it is very informal.

However, I do believe that the proper use of the English language is declining due to text messaging. You can see it in almost every newspaper you open. I guess some kids think it is smart.... “look at me, I know how to do this!” - but what they are telling about themselves is, that they’re not capable of typing very fast, or how to spell a word right.

I enjoy reading a well written text with proper spelling, that even contain words I didn’t know existed. I’m learning from that.

When it comes to English, I’m still learning new words every day and I enjoy communicating with people who have a bigger vocabulary more, than someone who don’t.

[Kirsten]

Well, guess I'm also old fashioned when it comes to this. Even though I understand why people use these abbreviations in cell phone messages or instant messages, I just cannot bring myself to do that. Same goes for not using capital letters at the beginning of sentences, or in nouns.

Another thing I've noticed is a severe deterioration of people's orthographical skills; at least here in Germany. You wouldn't believe how many spelling or grammatical errors you'll find even in official letters! Also, there seem to be more kids these days with dyslexia or speech disorders than there used to be in earlier times. I'm surprised how many kids go to see a speech therapist these days! My personal opinion is that we wouldn't have all these problems if parents would encourage their kids to read a book instead of dumping them in front of the tv/nintendo/pc...

Kirsten

[pomtzu]

I'm with the oldies here, as well I should be, in expressing my displeasure at where proper communication is going. I don't text, but I find nothing wrong with "text talk" among friends. However, in a business situation of any kind, or correspondence with a stranger, it is never appropriate or acceptable.
I throw in an occasional LOL here on PT, or in an email with friends or relatives, but that's about the extent of it. We live in a fast-paced world now, but that is no excuse for anyone to be so lazy, that they can't take the time to spell out in "real words", what they want to say.