Bay's dialects slowly dying*
As city encroaches and watermen leave, linguists try to preserve vernacular. (Washington Post, 19th February 2005)
Sideways helps spread wine jargon
The word "pinot", used repeatedly in wine-tasting comedy Sideways, has topped a US poll of showbusiness words influencing the English language. (BBC News, 17th February 2005)
RAF staff getting Arabic lessons
Staff at a top RAF base are being offered courses in Arabic language and culture prior to Middle East postings. (BBC News, 17th February 2005)
Wanted badly: Arabic speakers
After September 11, training soars for diplomats and academics (International Herald Tribune, 15th February 2005)
Gaelic first for new UK passports
UK passports are to include details in Scottish Gaelic for the first time, it has been confirmed. (BBC News, 7th February 2005)
Japan fears polite speech on wane
Japanese people need help to brush up on their polite language, a government panel has proposed. (BBC News, 4th February 2005)
Online directory recognises regional dialect
Need a new pair of "gutties", a "stotty" shop or at the end of a night a "Ruby Murray"? (Newcastle Chronicle and Journal, 4th February 2005)
Languages in schools 'in decline'
French and German lessons are in "chronic decline", with too many students dropping languages altogether at age 16, a study warns. (BBC News, 28th February 2005)
Academic swears by language shift
A cultural commentator says the growing trend of swearing among celebrities is part of the evolution of language. (BBC News, 25th February 2005)
Big fall in university languages
There has been a "marked decline" in the number of students studying modern languages, according to a report for the government. (BBC News, 25th February 2005)
Why do I sound Brummie?
When ITV recreated planespotter Garry Fagan's stay in a Greek prison they made every effort to get the little things right. However, the accent was more Wolverhampton than Wigston. (Leicester Mercury, 23rd February 2005)
Police launch interpretor service
Devon and Cornwall Police are offering non-English speaking people a new telephone service. (BBC News, 22nd February 2005)
Italy angry at EU language curbs
Italy has complained at EU Commission plans to drop Italian translation from some of its press briefings. (BBC News, 21st February 2005)
Gaelic bill secures MSPs' support
MSPs have unanimously given their support to a bill which would give the Gaelic language official status. (BBC News, 2nd February 2005)
