Does a statement have to be true to be a fact? When it comes to the difference between facts and opinions, some may argue that facts are merely claims that can be proven true or false. Most dictionaries, however, assert that in order for an...
If you preface a statement with “I’m not trying to be racist, but…” does that then make it okay? Is there a term for such disclaimer? This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of “Verbal Disclaimers” Hello...
The word sic, meaning “thus” in Latin, is placed in the text when an author knowingly quotes a misspelled word or otherwise incorrect statement. This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of “Known Misspelling in Quote”...
Political candidates end their TV ads with the statement “I approve this message.” Is that ungrammatical? This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of “I Approve This Message” Hello, you have A Way with Words. Hi, this...
kodakan v.— «The word Kodak itself is synonymous with photography. In the Philippines, the street lingo “kodakan” is often used as a generic term: to take a picture—though now, more often used as a whimsical statement.» —“The end of...
bike leg n.— «Casati, like many other bike riding University of Montana students and faculty members, has gotten into the habit of rolling up a pant leg—or two—in order to keep it from catching in the bike chain. […] This fashion...