How Writers Extend Standard Metaphors; and how Val McDermid does
How artists extend or elaborate conventional metaphors was brought home to me forcefully and repeatedly while reading a detective novel Broken Ground[ii] by Val McDermid.
Jeremy Butterfield Editorial
Making words work better
Latest posts
Exploring the lexical delights of words with the -arian suffix
The author explores the suffix "-arian" in words, using the Oxford English Dictionary as a rich resource. Notable terms include "flexitarian," "Trustafarian," and "antidisestablishmentarian," highlighting their meanings and historical contexts. The discussion reflects on language evolution, the charm of neologisms, and the cultural implications of these terms.
The Charms of Onomatopoeia and Frivolity in English
This post explores the links between playful language, onomatopoeia, and the triviality associated with knick-knacks and bric-a-brac. It discusses various still current as well as redundant words that suggest frivolity and highlight the charms of English, through examples from history and different languages, particularly focusing on phonetic enjoyment and literary creativity.
Exploring Onomatopoeic Rhyme Patterns in English
King Kong, jim-jams and the Kit Cat Club all three illustrate a mostly unwritten rule of English about the order in which we put vowel sounds when we repeat consonant elements to make rhyming words or phrases. That rule is known as the rule of ablaut reduplication.
A Deep Dive into Naming Conventions: -onym Examples
The text explores various types of -onyms, discussing their meanings and origins. It covers acronyms, pseudonyms, synonyms, antonyms, eponyms, toponyms, and more, explaining their significance in language and usage. The piece highlights the evolution of these terms and their relevance in modern communication while noting the playful aspect of naming conventions.
How to Handle Loanwords in English: A Focus on Schadenfreude
The discussion revolves around the use of the loanword "schadenfreude" in English. Although it originates from German, it has become naturalized in English. Opinions vary on capitalization and formatting, with most editors favoring lowercase. The complexity of loanwords highlights linguistic evolution and editing nuances.
Defuse vs Diffuse: Understanding the Difference
The article explores the confusion between "defuse" and "diffuse," particularly in emotional contexts. While "defuse" means to reduce tension, "diffuse" traditionally means to spread or disperse. Although some dictionaries now accept the overlap, traditionalists argue it leads to incorrect usage. The debate highlights evolving language dynamics amid established definitions.
Understanding Metaphors: The Case of the Carthorse, or Carthorses for Courses
Nevertheless, journalists routinely use carthorse used to describe different classes of people, especially sportspeople. Those people are mainly men, but there are exceptions.
Celebrating St David’s Day: Traditions and Significance
St David's Day, celebrated on March 1, honours Saint David, the patron saint of Wales, who lived in the 6th century. Though not a public holiday, many Welsh people don traditional costumes, eat traditional foods like cawl and bara brith, and wear leeks or daffodils. David was renowned for his teachings and miracles, and his shrine became a pilgrimage site.
Are You a Useful Idiot? Exploring the Concept
The term "useful idiot" refers to individuals who, often unwittingly, support political ideologies they do not fully comprehend, thereby serving as tools for manipulation. Originating in the context of communism, it describes citizens of non-communist countries who naively aligned themselves with communist ideals. Initially used for left-wing sympathizers during the Cold War, the phrase has…