In the article, "99.9% of Proper Grammar is Obsolete", the author, David Wertheimer, claims that proper grammar is becoming a thing of the past due to what is known as "Internet-speak" (Wertheimer, 2002) that is widely accepted now as regular part of speech. According to Wertheimer, it may not be easily noticeable considering that the structure and organization of the sentences seem to be correct, in addition to following certain rules of grammar such as capitalization, punctuation, word agreement, and use of "full-length words", among others. However, he maintains that proper sentence structure is superseded by more informal word choices as people become used to internet dialogue methods and based on user preferences when it comes to communication.
While web content writers continue to follow the essentials and conventions in writing, especially on legitimate Internet sites, Wertheimer says email users are beginning to mimic the casual written communication style of instant messenger users. He furthers claims that, "grammatical expertise wastes time and money" (Wertheimer), although it seems to work since online users not only accepted the new form of communication as the norm, but also promoted the use of abbreviations and non-formal scripting language. Case in point is the use of "gtg" instead of "got to go", "gl" for "good luck", and "gg" in place of "good game", among others.
Why do internet users prefer such short cuts? Wertheimer asserts that due to the time and money involved in constructing proper English grammar, users choose to communicate their ideas in shorter and faster methods. This includes punctuations and capitalizations that are now seldom used in informal writing. Thus, because bigger messages take longer to type, which equates to loss of valuable time, abridging the sentences into shorter and manageable phrases makes sending messages easier and simpler. Abbreviating words and phrases is easily recognizable in all computer devices, whether one uses a laptop, cell phone, iPad, and others. Because of this, the more users, old and new, rely on shorthand writing, he adds.
Despite writers' efforts to maintain the integrity of the written language, such as the use of proper clauses, prepositions, and modifiers, readers show less interest in understanding the content. Thus, the more a sentence is filled with heavy text and information, readers are less likely to appreciate the reading experience. In this light, would-be writers and those writing online have no other option but to conform to ensure that people read their articles and messages, further cementing the death of proper grammar.
How did all these began? Wertheimer says students learn about correct grammar in school where an incorrect spelling means wrong and improper use of verbs and tenses equate to an X mark on the paper. However, with the advent of computers and chatting facilities, online users realized that the formal way of communicating with one another is not viable in the online world where speed typing and speed-reading are the norm. As long as people can understand the messages, even without the benefit of correct English, communication takes place. Wertheimer avers individuals became lax with the use of proper English, to the point where online writers and users began developing their own terms and thus, the birth of the Internet-speak. Because of this, even new Internet users adapted the style.
Wertheimer says the problem can still be repaired by identifying terms and abbreviations that are only known in the Internet world, which can be compiled and "collectively called IM-speak" (Wertheimer). This way, Internet users, specifically those using chat facilities and similar technologies, have a common way to communicate among themselves.
References
Wertheimer, D. (2002). "99.9% of proper grammar is obsolete." Digital Web Magazine. Retrieved from http://www.digital-web.com/articles/999_of_proper_grammar_is_obsolete/
