In which the case is made for the use of more precision in communicating the imprecise.
Category: Language
Reconsidering the Dream Home
The other day my daughter drew a picture of what she thought my dream home would look like. It was essentially just a big house with lots of windows, a nice yard, etc. How she came to the conclusion that this would be the home of my dreams, I don't know, but it was lovely. … Continue reading Reconsidering the Dream Home
The Pain of Speaking Punctuation
I love using voice-to-text on my phone, that feature which dictates what you say, as you say it. Since you have to speak the punctuation as well (assuming you want to include it), it makes me especially thankful for grammar teachers who taught me to value punctuation. However, this form of language input, particularly when punctuation is included, … Continue reading The Pain of Speaking Punctuation
On Being Invited into a Secret Society
I've been intrigued lately by the salutatory phrase, "What's the good word?" as in: Me: "Hey {Person I Know}." {Person I Know}: "Hey Phil. What's the good word?" I hear this quite a bit, and I'm beginning to wonder if there is, in fact, a "good word". That if I SAY the "good word" to … Continue reading On Being Invited into a Secret Society