Why Do People Say 'I Seen It' Instead of 'I Saw It'? Understanding the Grammar Mistake

Many have encountered the grammatical phrase “I seen it” in casual conversation, finding it quite peculiar to the phrase “I saw it.” While “I seen it” might sound more natural in certain contexts, it is, in fact, a grammatical error. Let's explore why this mistake occurs and how language evolves over time.

Dialect Variation

One significant reason for the prevalence of “I seen it” in conversation is dialect variation. Dialects, which can be further categorized into regional, sociolectal, and more, often have distinct features that deviate from the standard forms of language. In some regions in the United States and the UK, we frequently hear the dialectal form of 'seen' instead of the standard 'saw.' For example, a person from a particular region may use “I seen them” even though they were speaking just a few hours ago and would use the standard form “I saw them.” This is due to the persistence of regional linguistic norms and the English varieties that have been in use for generations.

Language Evolution

Language is not static; it is a dynamic system that is always changing, and nonstandard forms can become deeply entrenched within certain communities. While “I seen it” is grammatically incorrect, it has become a part of the vernacular in some places. This is a prime example of how language evolves over time. Historically, there was a form of the past tense ending in 'en,' such as 'seen' for 'see,' but this fell out of use in Standard English, leading to 'saw' as the standard form. However, in some communities, this older form has persisted, leading to the use of “I seen it” as a colloquial expression.

Influence of Other Languages

In some cases, the influence of other languages also plays a role in this phenomenon. Speakers of English as a second language or individuals from multilingual backgrounds might transfer grammatical structures from their native languages into English, leading to the use of forms like “I seen it.” For example, in some languages, the past participle is used as an auxiliary for the perfect tense, which could lead to a similar form in English if not taught properly. Although mastering the proper English tense can take time and practice, it is crucial for effective communication.

Informality and Speech Patterns

Informality and speech patterns are significant factors in the prevalence of “I seen it.” In informal settings, people often prioritize ease of communication over strict adherence to grammatical rules, resulting in the use of nonstandard forms. Phrases like “I seen it” may be more comfortable and natural for some speakers, even though they are grammatically incorrect. This is especially true in casual settings, where colloquial language is more common.

The Grammar of 'See'

The entire sentence, “Why do people say 'I seen it' instead of 'I saw it'?” is incorrect. The correct phrasing is “Why do people say 'I seen it' instead of 'I saw it'?” Furthermore, it is not “Why does peoples say,” it should be “Why do peoples say.” It is also important to note that ‘I’ve seen it’ is often heard audibly as ‘I seen it,’ but only a person who knows the language well can correctly identify the error.

Conclusion

While “I seen it” might sound more natural in some contexts, it is a grammatical error. Understanding why this mistake occurs and how language evolves helps us appreciate the complexity and fluidity of the English language. As language continues to change, it is crucial to maintain standards for effective communication in formal and professional environments, while also recognizing and respecting the diversity of dialects and colloquialisms that enrich our everyday language.