The hidden superpower of verbs, with Sarah L. Kaufman

April 30
27 mins

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Episode Description

1181. This week, we talk to Sarah L. Kaufman about verbs. We look at why English is a "manner verb" superpower and why babies often learn prepositions before actions. Then, we look at how choosing strong, dynamic verbs can actually save lives during a disaster and how specific words like "smash" can physically alter a witness's memory.

Find Sarah L. Kaufman at sarahlkaufman.com

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