How is vernacular detrimental to the english language?

Question

anonymous · Answer

Language evolves.  When it isn't written down or policed, it evolves very quickly.  You might say that our newest words and phrases are upsetting the stability of language, and that we should be careful not to stray too far from "proper" English.

That being said, I guess you could argue that the evolution of language is a good thing.  We need new terms--tweet, friending--to explain new technologies.  And who's to say that "epic fail" is bad grammar?  It makes sense, so should it be considered wrong?

Personally, I think the key is to understand the rule before you break it.  Then it's okay to be creative, but you at least understand the rule you're breaking and why.  Eventually, the useful terms stick and the rest disappear.

anonymous · Answer

Thank you very much. I knew the answer, I just couldnt put it into such eloquent terms as that. :)