Will Pakistan’s Urdu Script Be Lost in Texting Translation?

The young generation in Pakistan, that has grown up using SMS as the predominant means of written communication, is using Latin script to write Urdu.

The staying power of English, and Shakespeare in Shona

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In this week’s World in Words podcast: a new book sparks a debate about how long English will rule the world. Also, Shakespeare’s plays will be performed in 38 languages next year in London, plus efforts to eradicate a Colonial-era pidgin still used by South African mineworkers, and to eradicate English words from Russian and Chinese.
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Grammar tips in Brazil, and magic in a second language

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In this week’s World in Words podcast: forget their laidback image, Brazilians care about grammar. One city has a long-established grammar hotline staffed by Portuguese language experts. Now the state of Rio de Janeiro is following suit. Also, an interview with the newly-crowned world record holder in speed-texting. And the art of performing magic in a language that’s not your own. Download MP3

Global Political Cartoons: August 28 – September 3, 2010

This week, a melange of Middle East messes. Perhaps a little harsh but we get a lot of visual comments on President Obama bellying up to the Mideast peace bar; the attempt to tie a bow on Iraq; and the uncertainty of a US success in Afghanistan.

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British woman breaks texting record

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How fast can you text “the razor-toothed piranhas of the genera Serrasalmus and Pygocentrus are the most ferocious freshwater fish in the world. In reality they seldom attack a human?” For Melissa Thompson of Manchester, England, the world’s fastest texter, it took a little more than 25 seconds.Anchor Marco Werman has more. (Photo credit: UK Press Association) Download MP3

• Video: See Melissa Thompson texting record
• Woman claims fastest texter in the world title
• Woman breaks text message record

Russia’s reckless drivers

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Last year, an estimated 35,000 people died on Russian roads. Eleven hundred of those people were killed on the streets of the capital, Moscow. So, what is it that makes getting into a car in the former Soviet Union such a gamble? Cell phones? Texting while driving? Drinking? The answer might surprise you. Jessica Golloher reports. >>> What’s the worst place you’ve ever driven? Post a comment.