Onomatopoeia, the literary device that uses words to mimic sounds, and linguistic analysis, the scientific study of language structure and meaning, are frequent subjects of discussion in The New York Times. Examples include articles exploring the cultural nuances of animal sounds across different languages or the evolution of slang and its impact on formal communication. The publication also regularly features pieces examining rhetoric, dialects, and the impact of language on thought and society.
Exploring the interplay between sound and meaning provides a deeper understanding of communication and its influence on culture. The New York Times’s coverage of topics related to linguistics and rhetoric offers valuable insights into how language shapes perception, influences political discourse, and reflects societal change. Historical context is often provided, tracing the evolution of specific terms and expressions, illustrating how language adapts and evolves over time.