Words, Wrongly Used
One of my pet peeves is when words are used wrongly. I’m not talking about spelling errors or improper grammar, although that can also be annoying.
What I am talking about is words that are used in ways that they should not be used. Some examples of words, wrongly used include:
- Words that are used to deceive.
- Words that are used to hurt others.
Do you have some examples of words, wrongly used? Leave a comment and let me know.
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Robert Hruzek | Aug 27, 2007 | Reply
I totally agree, Laura - but I don’t think there ARE any other categories, are there? Anything I can think of falls into one or the other!
What’s scary, difficult and dangerous about our own words is that our own passion can lead us into those two areas - even unwittingly! A friend of mine is always reminding me of the importance of words. Hopefully that lesson stays at the forefront of my mind at all times!
Laura | Aug 27, 2007 | Reply
Hi Robert!
Well, I almost listed boasting and then stopped because I wasn’t sure where to draw the line with that.
Tammi | Aug 27, 2007 | Reply
Insocculent (that’s my own made-up word meaning “intellectual or emotional blindness”) words
Words used to discourage (even if the speaker is well-meaning)
Words used carelessly, thoughtlessly
Vivienne Quek | Aug 28, 2007 | Reply
Seemingly harmless words were deliberately used with the intention to cause and create doubts, rifts and misunderstanding.
Laura | Aug 28, 2007 | Reply
Tammi and Vivienne! Good picks. I think those are also examples of words, wrongly used.
Matt Keegan | Aug 28, 2007 | Reply
Okay, I’ll ‘fess up. There are times when my bluntness could be construed as being mean or uncaring. I try not to come across that way, but I understand when I write candidly I don’t always season my words with grace.
I will also admit that if there is a wrong that I perceive, I’ll often check my sources and when confirmed, fire away. This is especially true when a wrong involves children — I can be a real bear!
Laura | Aug 28, 2007 | Reply
Hi Matt!
I think everyone has moments when they are just careless with words, but don’t mean anything by it. Your post is a reminder to us all to think before we speak (or write).
I don’t see anything wrong with being a “bear” if the cause is just.
Brad Shorr | Sep 4, 2007 | Reply
Superlatives always make me suspicious in ad copy - newest, latest, greatest, never-before-seen, unique, unmatched, etc.
Bob | Dec 15, 2007 | Reply
During this political season, words are wrongly used in almost every sound bite.