I learned a little something from one of my Korean students. In Korea (in the Eastern hemisphere, I think) they call hurricanes typhoons. Beats me. But, the interesting bit? They name them, too.... And they name them, in rotation, by Korean, Japanese and Chinese names. I didn't think to ask about male/female. But, now I think of it - I hear both, but do they carefully alternate Hispanic and Anglo names when they name our hurricanes? I'll have to find out.
I have long thought that the word "community" is overused. For example, "Black Community" - I sincerely doubt that all black folk feel community with one another....or, at the very least, there wouldn't be any gangs. And, isn't it a bit patronizing and belittling to suggest that they do? Is there a "white community"? I heard the weirdest one this week on our local NPR station - speaking of our local "Medical Marijuana Community". I've really missed out! I didn't realize that I could have been enjoying the social life and support of the "Sinus-Ibuprofen Community".
Sometimes you hear a word used in the news that really seems "perfect" in context. It is just slightly underused, and has a meaning that is apt in a certain situation. I've noticed that you'll hear it once, and think "good use of language". But, in short order, you'll hear that unique word again, and then again, and then again... It is no longer unique, in fact it is overused. A good word - down the drain. I think this was done years ago with "empower" and "enable", More recently "robust" lost its gusto through overuse. In the last few months I've noticed the same thing happening with "compelling". Dang it! Loved that word.
While I'm on this kick, just let me mention that the phrase "on the ground" is getting a bit old, too. It must have arisen when we first had reporters embedded with the troops. I expect "on the ground" has military origins - at least it sounds that way. And in that context it often makes sense, pointing out, as it seems to, the bit of disconnect between those planning an operation from afar and those actively involved. But, recently I've heard it used when "on site" or even "there" would sound a lot less self-conscious.
One entertaining things about teaching the Koreans is that I will learn something while I'm explaining something. For example, yesterday I was trying to explain the word "apt"and in doing so realize that it must have really originated as a short version of "appropriate".
Now, off my obsession with language for two more random bits:
Query to self: Why, Annie, do you persist in creeping around in the dark, fearful of opening doors or making a sound at 4 a.m., when at 9 or even 10 a.m. you need to shoot off a canon to wake anyone up? (I am pretty sure I could turn on the lights and talk to myself and it wouldn't bother a soul.)
I heard someone the other day excited about school about to start. They can't wait for the kids to be "back in school." I LOVE summer, and having the children out of school....the confession is how much I hate the school year, which brings with it the burden of homework and the stress of having to go somewhere first thing in the morning. I am just now beginning to push myself back into a more rigorous schedule at work. It makes me want to cry. I'm already feeling like someone is running behind me with a bayonet forcing me on.....and I haven't even begun to face: lunches, homework, clean and appropriate clothing for everyone, a real, non-flexible start time. I'm not sure I'm up to it. And, add to that the feeling that I am saying "good-bye" to my kids for nine months. Henceforward I will have to spend our few minutes together each day harassing them about their schoolwork, or urging them to move faster.
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