Every word leaves a trace. A disgruntled employee's late-night Facebook rant, cryptic messages, riddled with emojis, arranging a drug deal, a threatening letter from a scorned ex. These are more than words to forensic linguist, Professor Georgina Heydon. They’re crucial clues that can act like a phonetic fingerprint, revealing the identity of the culprit - because sometimes the key to solving a crime isn’t what’s said, but how it’s said.

In this episode, hosted by Kathryn Fox, Georgina explains how the scientific study of language can help solve crimes and expose the truth.

This episode references men's violence against women. If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services. The number for Life Line is 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.