Sep 1, 2023 · According to Smithsonian, the ax pronunciation is, in fact, totally valid. You might be wondering how that’s possible. The word is spelled A-S-K, so it’s pronounced ask. Simple, grade-school...

Jul 2, 2024 · Some linguists consider "ax" (or "aks") an integral part of Black American culture. Anti-Black folks seek to correct our speech to make us feel uneducated and inferior. But we speak a dialect different from standard English speakers, and it's never been inherently wrong.

Mar 11, 2022 · In North America, “aks” (or “ax”) was widely used in New England and the southern and middle states. In the late 19th century, however, it became stereotyped as exclusive to African American...

So it is possible that it is actually the standard pronunciation of 'ask' that has undergone metathesis from 'aks', rather than the other way around. Alternatively, the standard pronunciation may have been introduced by the Vikings.

Feb 6, 2014 · Geoffrey Chaucer, the "Father of English Literature," said "ax." UK Government Art Collection, artist unknown. Language and pronunciation are far from immutable.

Apr 19, 2024 · The article explores why some Black people say "aks" instead of "ask" and discusses its origins and cultural significance.

Apr 12, 2022 · With “ask,” some people started saying “aks,” and some started saying “ash.” But this time, it wasn’t “ash” that won out. Instead, for a while “aks” was doing pretty well. Even Chaucer used it in “The Canterbury Tales,” in lines such as …

Feb 12, 2013 · Facts: these two forms have both existed for centuries, and [aks] was considered the “correct” form for much of that time. Language attitude: [aks] is not only “wrong”, it reflects negatively on those people who use it, making them sound less intelligent and less educated.

Feb 24, 2023 · Why Do People Say “Axe” or “Aks” Instead of “Ask”? Shetland Islanders, descendents of Jamaican immigrants living in London, and African Americans all tend to say “axe” or “aks” instead of “ask” when speaking.

May 29, 2022 · "Aks" or "axe" was the correct and only form of the word in Old English as far back as the 8th century. It only switched to "ask" in the early 1700s (in Britain). This means that the first settlers in the US, in 1620, would have been "axers" not "askers".