Forensic linguistics: a starter
Forensic linguistics is a growing area of language study that combines the analysis of language with solving crimes. All of us use language in subtly (and sometimes not very subtly) different ways – so when we write or speak, we leave clues that sharp-eyed language detectives can pick up.
In this resource, we take a quick look at the kinds of clues forensic linguists look for when they try to work out the identity of a writer.
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Forensic linguistics: some answers
So, what clues did you find? The police were convinced that the two sets of messages were actually from different people, and that Melinda hadn’t sent the messages on February 16th, but they needed evidence.
Some of the clues in the data are easier to spot than others, but here are some differences:
Forensic linguistics: how is it done?
Forensic linguistics often uses a form of language analysis known as stylistics. In the past, stylistics was largely used to study the language styles of literature texts, but when used as part of forensic stylistics it is applied to all sorts of language, from letters, text messages and audio recordings of police interviews, through to suicide notes and ransom demands.