Another Word I Got Wrong : Vile

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the meaning of the word "vile," exploring its definitions and connotations. Participants reflect on their understanding of the term, its etymology, and related words, such as "vilified." The conversation touches on language, definitions, and the nuances of word meanings.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • One participant initially believed "vile" meant "very unpalatable," linking it to the idea of a "vile concoction," but noted that the dictionary defines it as "wicked."
  • Another participant humorously suggested using a "vial" for the concoction, playing on the similarity in sound between "vile" and "vial."
  • A participant reiterated the dictionary definition of "vile" as "wicked," while also suggesting that a concoction can be considered vile if it is unpleasant to look at.
  • A later reply echoed the initial misunderstanding of "vile" and introduced the term "vilified," mentioning its Latin stem meaning "of low value," and provided a link for further exploration of the etymology.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing interpretations of the word "vile," with some focusing on its unpleasantness and others on its moral implications. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the primary meaning of the term.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference dictionary definitions and etymology, but there are no detailed discussions on the implications of these definitions or how they might vary in different contexts.

Hornbein
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I thought vile meant "very unpalatable," as in a vile concoction. But the dictionary says the meaning is "wicked." Oh well. Wrong again. I guess it is close to villain, maybe that should have been a clue.
 
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And use a vial for that concoction.
 
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Hornbein said:
But the dictionary says the meaning is "wicked."
A concoction can be vile if it is unpleasant to look at.
 
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