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Faldage Offline OP
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Why would anyone be so bothered by a usage that is different against one's own that it would set one's teeth on edge, cause one to shudder or any of various other reactions I've seen described on this and other language forums?



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Even allowing for hyperbole in the claims of "shudder" or "teeth on edge", those claims do indeed seem jest a titch histrionic.


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I think it might have to do with how one is educated Faldage.

The aitch/haitch thread is a good example. If you are taught that saying haitch (by your parents, teachers, etc) is wrong, you believe it. When you then hear the word pronounce incorrectly (as per your educators) it doesn't sound right in your ears and is grating.

It may also be that whole "fear of the unknown" thing of your clan ('s way of speaking) versus my clan ('s way of speaking).


#57552 02/17/02 11:15 PM
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>usages that send me screaming

usages......arrrrghhhhhhh!!!!!

Personally, I prefer to use use.

You're right though, I think it is all in the ear/hearing.

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Faldage Offline OP
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usages......arrrrghhhhhhh!!!!!

No problems with different against, belM?

And M-W on line has as its most applicable definition of use: habitual or customary usage.


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Ah, but don't get me wrong, I'm not saying usage is incorrect, it is just not the word I was taught, so when I hear it - grate grate grate against my ear it goes.


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unused-to usages

Oh, I think I seen one around here once.


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Faldage Offline OP
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all in the ear/hearing

grate grate grate against my ear it goes


But if it's not wrong, why does it provoke such strong reactions? If you were taught that you look good in a red sweater and you suddenly start seeing people wearing blue sweaters (assuming you're not a Blood) I hope you don't get all freaky. What is it about words that sets y'all off?


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But if it's not wrong, why does it provoke such strong reactions? If you were taught that you look good in a red sweater and you suddenly start seeing people wearing blue sweaters (assuming you're not a Blood) I hope you don't get all freaky. What is it about words that sets y'all off?


Do you tease Dear Fadage? Words do more than transfer printed information. They identify and reinforce membership in in-groups. Whether L.A. street gang or Boston Brahmin, the hard information content may be nil, but how it is said is the message. We all do this don't we dear Faldage.


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