Last month, Facebook was granted a patent for a software system that will recognize and analyze neologisms. That’s a fancy term for pieces of language – such as slang, abbreviations, acronyms or nicknames – before they actually become widespread. Basically, Facebook will continually be up-to-date on trendy terms, fashionable phrases and the latest lingo.
If the software encounters a new term that doesn’t have an existing definition, it will analyze the context surrounding the term and add it to a “social glossary” that tracks how language is evolving. The glossary will be a storehouse for current and popular terms. To keep it as relevant as possible, if a term loses popularity, then it will be removed.
Interesting, huh? As takeaway enthusiasts, we’re curious about what’s going to come of this glossary, and we’re probably not the only ones. Facebook claims that the system will help them improve predictive typing, which certainly makes sense. We also have a hunch that it could help with tracking users and even be involved with specified ad targeting.
How else do you think this software system could be put to use? Share your thoughts with us on our Facebook page! (Seems fitting, right?)
