How Writers Extend Standard Metaphors; and how Val McDermid does
How artists extend or elaborate conventional metaphors was brought home to me forcefully and repeatedly while reading a detective novel Broken Ground[ii] by Val McDermid.
Recent Posts
Exploring the lexical delights of words with the -arian suffix
The author explores the suffix “-arian” in words, using the Oxford English Dictionary as a rich resource. Notable terms include “flexitarian,” “Trustafarian,” and “antidisestablishmentarian,” highlighting their meanings and historical contexts. The discussion reflects on language evolution, the charm of neologisms, and the cultural implications of these terms.
The Charms of Onomatopoeia and Frivolity in English
This post explores the links between playful language, onomatopoeia, and the triviality associated with knick-knacks and bric-a-brac. It discusses various still current as well as redundant words that suggest frivolity and highlight the charms of English, through examples from history and different languages, particularly focusing on phonetic enjoyment and literary creativity.
Exploring Onomatopoeic Rhyme Patterns in English
King Kong, jim-jams and the Kit Cat Club all three illustrate a mostly unwritten rule of English about the order in which we put vowel sounds when we repeat consonant elements to make rhyming words or phrases. That rule is known as the rule of ablaut reduplication.
A Deep Dive into Naming Conventions: -onym Examples
The text explores various types of -onyms, discussing their meanings and origins. It covers acronyms, pseudonyms, synonyms, antonyms, eponyms, toponyms, and more, explaining their significance in language and usage. The piece highlights the evolution of these terms and their relevance in modern communication while noting the playful aspect of naming conventions.
How to Handle Loanwords in English: A Focus on Schadenfreude
The discussion revolves around the use of the loanword “schadenfreude” in English. Although it originates from German, it has become naturalized in English. Opinions vary on capitalization and formatting, with most editors favoring lowercase. The complexity of loanwords highlights linguistic evolution and editing nuances.