Another linguistic newsflash from me – yes, I know, two newsflashes in two days, but I have been keeping busy.
As a reward for good behaviour in my current job at Radio Prague International, I have been allowed my own mini series all about etymology. Entitled Word of the Week, each instalment takes a look at one everyday Czech word, humble at first sight, yet hiding interesting linguistic and historical connections.
Through these links, with particular emphasis on those with my native English, I hope to contribute to the demystification, or rather the de-isolation of the Czech language in the perception of its learners. The language has so much in common with other European languages, and a little etymology can make it seem more interesting and more approachable.
The Words of the Week will be available in text format on the RPI English website, as well as audio versions in one of each week’s episodes of the daily Czechia in 30 Minutes show.
Moreover, since I strive for total media saturation, I will be recording video versions too! If you would like to watch me explaining etymology and gesticulating grandly, these videos will be primarily available on RPI’s Facebook and Instagram.
Some will end up on YouTube too!
In whichever format you prefer, please give Word of the Week your patronage. Subscribe to RPI’s social media, bestow likes and comments on the videos, check the main website once a week – however you choose, your support for the series will mean that I will get to keep making it!
With thanks and best wishes,
Danny
Danny L. Bate 