Making words work better
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The article explores the confusion between “defuse” and “diffuse,” particularly in emotional contexts. While “defuse” means to reduce tension, “diffuse” traditionally means to spread or disperse. Although some dictionaries now accept the overlap, traditionalists argue it leads to incorrect usage. The debate highlights evolving language dynamics amid established definitions.