If a suspect is at large, he is moving about freely. The term at large, which comes to us via French from Latin, refers not to size but to distance. The phrase by and large, meaning “generally” or “on the whole,” derives from...
Following up on our discussion of different ways to say “I miss you,” a listener suggests “I miss who I get to be when I’m with you.” This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of “Variation on “I Miss...
Long distance communication used to be pretty expensive, but few messages have made a bigger dent than William Seward’s diplomatic telegram to France, which in 1866 cost him more than $300,000 in today’s currency. This pricey message...
If the phrase “I miss you” feels drained of meaning after using it over and over, try this line from To Kill a Mockingbird as a substitute: “I wonder how much of the day I spend just callin’ after you.” This is part of...
This week, it’s the language of politics. Martha and Grant discuss two handy terms describing politicians: far center and snollygoster. Also, a presidential word puzzle, false friends, spendthrifts, and a long list of 17th-century insults. So...
To keep something at bay means to maintain a safe distance from it. But does this expression derive from an old practice of using bay leaves to ward off pestilence? This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of “Keep At Bay” Hello...