Why do people insist on using big words they don't know the meaning of ?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the use of complex vocabulary and idiomatic expressions in communication, particularly in professional or academic settings. Participants express their frustrations and observations regarding individuals who misuse big words, often to appear more intelligent or sophisticated. The conversation touches on the implications of such language use, including misunderstandings and the perception of self-importance.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express annoyance at individuals who use big words incorrectly, suggesting it reflects poorly on their intelligence.
  • One participant questions the meaning of the phrase "checkered history," proposing it could imply varied fortune rather than controversy.
  • Another participant humorously speculates about the possibility of riots at conferences, highlighting the absurdity of misused language.
  • A participant shares a personal anecdote about a colleague who misused words like "subsequently" and "incredulous," illustrating the confusion that can arise from such misuse.
  • There is a discussion about the term "idiom," with participants providing definitions and examples to clarify its meaning.
  • One participant recounts a humorous essay written by a classmate, showcasing the excessive use of complex vocabulary that obscured meaning.
  • Another participant mentions their frustration with the misuse of the word "literally," citing a politician's incorrect usage as an example.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the annoyance caused by the misuse of big words, but there are varying opinions on the implications of such language use. Some find it humorous, while others express anger at the pretentiousness it conveys. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the broader impact of this behavior on communication.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific idioms and vocabulary, but there is no consensus on the appropriateness or effectiveness of using complex language in professional contexts. The discussion highlights the subjective nature of language interpretation and the potential for misunderstanding.

  • #31
Hurkyl said:
The cromulent use of big words embiggens the smallest man.
Have you seen this list yet? I think you might enjoy it. It might even become a tradition.
 
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  • #32
Comedian Norm Crosby usd to appear on Johnny Carson a lot in the 60's with his fantastic use of malapropisms. I guess he's on the web now:



Dear Mr. Crosby,

Absent knowing how to reach you I am trying this route. I understand you have a date in Boynton at the temple in Dec. Marcia and I would love to see you, break bread, have a drink, or have you stay over with us. My address is (address withheld by Edirot) in Boynton Beach. (phone number withheld by Edirot)

Bob



Dear Bob,

Great to hear from you. Apparently there has been some sort of excommunication here on the InterNest. And I'm glad you brought this to my detention.

You seem to have gotten my e-mail address off some website called Shtick! where they have a column that claims to be written by Yours Trudy. Actually, I've read the fake Ask Norm Crosby column and I wish I had found this Charlie Recksieck guy back when I was looking for writers for "Norm Crosby's Comedy Shop." We had so many so-called comedy writers for that show come in and out of there, we should have installed a revolting door.

So as it turns out, Bob, when you sent the e-mail to Norm Crosby, you're actually reaching some guy named Charlie with your e-mail. It's not me, just an incredible stimulation. I don't bear this importer any ill will -- you know what they say, "Intonation is the sincerest form of battery."

Yes, I do have a show at the Temple in December. Please come up and say "Hello." I'm touched by your offer to stay with you, though I already do have complications arranged at the Mariott. But I would love to say hi to you and Marcia.

Take care,

Norm Crosby

http://www.shtick.org/NormCrosby/norm36.htm
 
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  • #33
honestrosewater said:
Have you seen this list yet? I think you might enjoy it. It might even become a tradition.
I haven't seen that one. Nice. :smile: Until now, I've only seen this list of Simpsons neologisms.
 
  • #34
Geographer said:
I was interested to see what his interpretation of 'idiom' was, not that I was disputing his use of the word, but I didn't really think it fit in that example.

I'm not sure if posting links to sites such as this is allowed here (if so, I'll remove the link), but for those interested in discussing the English language, check out this link:

http://www.apostrophe.fsnet.co.uk/index.htm

It has a message board on there, and although the name is 'Apostrophe Protection Society', they discuss all aspects of English.

Hmm...

Well, 'idiom', like so many other words, has various shades of meaning. I suppose there are 2 broad "categories" for the meaning - the first being a peculiar parlance or patois native to some people, and the second being a turn of phrase with a meaning that is not derivable from its literal construction. I was using the latter meaning.
 
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  • #35
If you enjoy funny misuses of big words then watch any episode of The Sopranos in which Little Carmine Lupertazzi is featured.

Hurkyl said:
The cromulent use of big words embiggens the smallest man.

:biggrin: Jebediah Springfield!
 
  • #36
Curious3141 said:
"Checkered history" ?! Does this guy even know what that idiom means ? :rolleyes:

Halazoon!
 
  • #37
Curious3141 said:
This is a big, big pet peeve of mine. I just got this email inviting me to a BioMechanics conference. Here's a snippet :



"Checkered history" ?! Does this guy even know what that idiom means ?:rolleyes:

I'm sure he meant "glorious" or "distinguished", but ended up giving us all the impression that the conference has previously been embroiled in controversy and shady happenings.

See what happens when you try to convince others you're smarter than you are ? You just end up looking like a great, big fool. :smile:

Yes I wish people would stop making a shamokery of the english language. It's not a stupendiferous as they make it out to be :biggrin: