People are speaking less each day, study finds decline in conversation
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People are speaking significantly less than they did in the past, with a new study showing a steady drop in daily word use that could affect human connection.
Research published in Sage Journals found that individuals now speak an average of 338 fewer words per day compared to 2005. Over a year, this amounts to roughly 120,000 fewer spoken words per person.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Missouri-Kansas City and the University of Arizona, analysed data from 22 studies over 14 years. It included more than 2,000 participants aged 10 to 94 across the United States, Europe, and Australia, using audio recordings to track everyday conversations.
Between 2005 and 2019, the number of words spoken daily declined by 28 percent. Researchers say the change is gradual and may not be noticeable day to day, but becomes significant over time.
Valeria Pfeifer, assistant professor of linguistics and psychology at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, said small behavioural changes can accumulate and reshape how people connect. She noted that a reduction in spoken conversation over the years could alter social relationships.
While the study does not identify a single cause, the trend aligns with the rise of smartphones, messaging, and social media. As digital communication grows, many interactions that once took place face-to-face are now happening through text and online platforms.
The decline is seen across all age groups but is more pronounced among younger people, particularly those aged 25 and under. Researchers suggest that higher use of digital platforms among younger generations may be contributing to fewer spoken interactions.
The findings raise concerns about the impact on relationships. Spoken communication carries tone, emotion, and nuance that are harder to convey through text, and fewer conversations may reduce both immediate social connection and long-term relationship strength.
Researchers say further study is needed to understand whether digital communication can provide the same social benefits as face-to-face interaction, as human communication continues to shift.