For a good time, google wake vs. awaken. Perhaps the most vexing verb in English, the term for waking up still puzzles the experts. This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of “Wake vs. Awaken” Hello, you have A Way with Words. Hi...
Carolyn from San Diego asks why made-to-measure clothing, such as a Savile Row suit, is called bespoke. The word goes back to bespeak, meaning to discuss, arrange for, request, or order something. Tailors used it for goods made to order, and the...
A Michigander wants to know about the difference between titled and entitled. She’d assumed that a book is titled Gone with The Wind and a person is entitled to compensation for something. Grant and Martha explain it’s a little more...
break off v. phr. to freely or gratuitously give something (to someone), especially money or something highly prized; in the form break (someone) off a piece, to give or receive sexual favors. Editorial Note: Usually constructed as a transitive with...