As I previously commented, we Americans are addicted to shortening our words; we try to limit even three- or four-syllable words to one or two syllables. One notable exception has been the popular "relationship," a whopping four-pounder which we keep intact. But I still await the day when Oprah or Dr. Phil will be speaking about how we can improve our "ship" or "re" with others. Another four-syllabler lately has crept into our speech, and now is overly used by news commentators, politicians, entertainers, interviewees, etc. The word is "absolutely." What the heck is wrong with the one-syllable "yes"? Using "absolutely" does not differ in basic meaning from the simple "yes." Moreover, "absolutely" locks you in---it does not have a fudge factor, whereas "yes" probably does.
Am I confident enough about this to put it into print? Absolutely.
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2 comments:
Great post, Doc. This is probably one of my "faves."
Bless you, my son.
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