I bought this book two or three years ago, and it has given me a huge amount of pleasure.
Read Morelanguage
Reflections on language
If it is such an effort to deny that you’ve done anything wrong, then you must be guilty. Otherwise, it would be easy.
Read MoreCan writers learn from computer programmers?
Introducing and applying Conway's Law, Gresham's Law and the sunken cost fallacy to the practice of writing.
Read MoreThe new definition of "cosmetic"
We writers have a duty to do what we can to preserve the dignity of the language in which we work.
Read MoreVideo still
My blackberry isn’t working: technology and language (humour)
Terry, thinking
Language and meaning 2: the need for precision
Since when has “discreet” meant “small”?
Read MoreConversing, by Terry Freedman
Language and meaning
A girl I taught was highly intelligent, very helpful and had a great sense of humour. Unfortunately, though, whenever she disagreed with somebody she immediately flew into a temper, insulted them and told them to go forth and multiply — though rather more crudely than that. I imagine she has a huge following on Twitter these days, as that seems to be the main way of “communicating” for a lot of people.
Read MoreQuick look: You talkin' to me? The Unruly History of New York English (The Dialects of North America)
One of my ambitions, once this pandemic is over, is to visit New York if I can. In the meantime, this look at the various cultures and dialects in New York is a reasonable substitute for actually being there.
Read MoreNot sure, by Terry Freedman
Minding our language
Using words correctly is essential. Why?
Read MoreBuzzsaw screenshot, by Terry Freedman
Bad PR jargon, and how to detect it
If you’re tired of people “reaching out” or “circling back” or sending you sales “literature” that bears no relevance to you whatsoever, you will enjoy learning that you’re not alone.
Read MoreCure, by Terry Freedman
Signs of the times
Signs in the environment can provide great stimulation for our imagination, and tell us about history in some cases too.
Read MoreMind your language (2): A strange sign
Perhaps I shouldn’t take things so literally…
Read MoreWhy you need a proofreader
I think this notice about parking illustrates why it’s not a good idea to rely solely on yourself when it comes to proofreading and editing. The notice contains two errors that could, and should, have been avoided.Mind your language! Fork Handles
Mind your language! Crosswordese
If, like me, you have a love of language, you should explore the strange world of the cryptic crossword. Unlike the plain crossword, the cryptic variety requires more than providing a synonym for a word or phrase. Rather, it involves working out what the clue is getting at.
That sounds much more difficult than the task facing you in an ordinary crossword, doesn't it? In fact, much of the time it's easier, for one simple reason.
Mind your language!
Here are a couple of odd uses of language I came across recently. At least, they made me sit up and take notice, and perhaps that was the point.