linguistics Archives - TPR: The Public's Radio

This illustration shows three mouths — two with pink lips and one with red lips — against a black background. Conversation bubbles with "UM" written in them come out of each mouth.

NPR

So um, why do we say ‘um’ so much?

by Ayana Archie September 3, 2025September 3, 2025

Who knew two letters could spark so much conversation? This week, we’re breaking down the many uses of “um” and why the word is so controversial.

A black-and-white illustration of a Roman fleet.

NPR

Word of the Week: Trump calls tariffs ‘the most beautiful word.’ Here’s its history

by Rachel Treisman April 9, 2025April 9, 2025

President Trump has repeatedly called tariffs “the most beautiful word in the dictionary.” NPR’s Word of the Week explores how they got their name.

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