Buzz
Certain terms might leave you blushing, but are those who use them truly mistaken, or is there a deeper explanation?
Like it or not, the English language is in a constant state of evolution. Originating from a rule-heavy language like German, we've discarded many of those rules for simplicity's sake.
Occasionally, we establish rules for a word's usage—its meaning, pluralization—only to see it transform completely. However, languages are shaped by their users. So, no matter how incorrect a change may appear, we must either accept it or passionately defend traditional usage.
To clarify, let's explore some instances. Below are 10 debated words that may not be as incorrect as you believe.
10. Octopi
Many believe—and even teach—that this term is accurate, and there’s a historical basis for this belief. However, the most accurate plural form isn’t 'octopi' or octopodes, as some grammar enthusiasts, unaware that etymology isn’t ideal casual conversation, might suggest.
The most linguistically accurate plural of 'octopus' is 'octopuses.'
This is due to the fact that 'octopus' isn’t a Latin word, so 'octopi' isn’t correct. It’s not Greek either, ruling out octopodes. Instead, 'octopus' is a Latinized Greek term introduced by Carl Linnaeus, known as the 'father of taxonomy,' in the 18th century.
Considering its mixed linguistic roots, it’s more practical to use standard English pluralization rules rather than relying on Greek or Latin conventions.
However, these plural forms aren’t entirely wrong either; they’re simply more debatable. The term 'octopus' can be linked to the Latin word polypus, which has the plural polypi. From this angle, 'octopi' might be considered acceptable.
Interestingly, Linnaeus himself employed the plural octopodes, despite knowing that polypi was the correct plural for the original term. No matter which plural you choose, someone will likely argue that it’s incorrect.
9. Ornery
The term 'ornery' is a unique case. While it’s tricky to spell, it hasn’t adopted an unconventional spelling, and pronunciation variations are minimal. Instead, it has developed a regional meaning, particularly in the United States, that isn’t widely documented in dictionaries.
In the South and Midwest of the U.S., many people use this word to describe a playful or unruly child, often with a sense of fondness or affection.
However, this term can also lead to cultural misunderstandings. It’s frequently used in a negative context to describe someone who is difficult, obstinate, or quick to anger. Numerous online discussions and forums feature individuals sharing their surprise upon learning the word’s 'true' meaning, such as this example.
While major dictionaries don’t include this regional interpretation, some platforms like Wiktionary do. However, since Wiktionary isn’t considered a highly authoritative source, it might take time for the popular regional usage of 'ornery' to gain official recognition.
8. Literally
The incorrect use of this word is a frequent gripe. Some people use it as a verbal habit, like saying, 'I literally can’t even right now.' Others employ it as exaggeration, such as, 'I feel literally on top of the world right now.' Regardless, 'literally' should only describe something that is entirely and undeniably true.
At least, that was the case six years ago. Due to its widespread figurative use, the Oxford English Dictionary literally included this new definition in 2011.
Critics of this usage might be surprised to learn that 'literally' has been employed figuratively for more than 250 years. Even Mark Twain used it in its less formal sense in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.
Despite its inclusion in the dictionary, using 'literally' in a figurative sense remains nonstandard. While it’s unsuitable for academic writing, only strict adherents to standard English would object to its use in casual settings.
7. Ain’t
No list of this nature would be complete without 'ain’t,' even though it’s widely known that 'ain’t' is indeed a word. What’s less known is that 'ain’t' has appeared in dictionaries for over 250 years, initially labeled as 'slang,' and was officially recognized as a non-slang (though still nonstandard) term in 1993. Thus, the saying, 'ain’t ain’t a word and I ain’t gonna say it,' isn’t entirely true.
In fact, 'ain’t' originated from earlier contractions like 'an’t' or 'amn’t.' Throughout much of English history, it was used sincerely, even by notable authors such as Tennyson and Swift.
Over time, the word expanded in usage, encompassing meanings like 'is not' and 'has not.' This led to criticism from 18th and 19th-century prescriptivists—individuals who advocated for specific grammatical rules while opposing others—who deemed 'ain’t' an abomination, a kind of hybrid. These groups also contributed to the general discouragement of contractions in formal writing and essays.
Today, 'ain’t' is widely accepted in informal contexts. Virtually every English speaker understands its meaning, and there’s little justification for shaming its use. However, it’s unlikely to shed its negative reputation in formal settings.
6. Alright
The typical 'educated' response to this word is to correct it with a red pen and advise the writer to update their spell-check. However, this spelling has historical support, even though more formal audiences often disapprove of its use.
The merging of 'all' and 'right' into a single word has occurred throughout history. Even in Old English, the compound term eallriht existed. Famous examples include The Who’s song 'The Kids Are Alright' and its use by authors like James Joyce.
Despite its long-standing usage, the word often elicits frowns from editors, as many dislike it. Writing 'alright' is seen as an act of defiance. Critics argue, 'There’s no need for two words that essentially serve the same purpose.'
However, it’s acceptable to use 'alright,' especially for those who enjoy living on the edge. While it’s not yet standard, there’s a growing movement to legitimize it.
5. Hopefully
The most common usage of this word entered the English language subtly. Originally, it described actions performed in a 'hopeful' manner, such as looking at a situation or the sky hopefully. However, it couldn’t be used to mean, 'Hopefully, this situation will end favorably for me.' This shift was first noted as recently as the 1960s.
Even though AP style now accepts this usage, some still argue it’s incorrect. The controversy stems from the fact that 'hopefully,' as a sentence adverb, doesn’t directly translate to 'it is hopeful that.' Instead, it modifies an implied subject, meaning 'I hope that' or 'we hope that.'
However, the argument against this word has always been weak. Terms like 'sadly' or 'thankfully' function similarly, with their meanings inferred from context. Despite their parallel structure, no one questions their use, likely because 'hopefully' in its modern sense is a recent addition, while words like 'sadly' have been around much longer.
4. Irregardless
Defending this word is undoubtedly unpopular. Any writer doing so would likely need to preface their argument with: 'I apologize in advance. Please don’t send a lynch mob after me, and let’s keep the comments respectful.'
The word’s origins are murky, but it’s likely a blend of 'regardless' and 'irrespective'—an attempt to sound sophisticated that ultimately fell flat. Nevertheless, 'irregardless' has been in use for centuries, first appearing as early as 1795. It remains one of the most contentious terms in the English language, and despite widespread objections, it is indeed a recognized word with its own dictionary entry.
Similar to 'hopefully,' the meaning of 'irregardless' isn’t literal. Both the prefix 'ir-' and the suffix '-less' convey negation, creating a redundant double negative that, technically, should mean the opposite of its intended use.
If 'irregardless' ever gains acceptance beyond its nonstandard status, it will likely be as an idiomatic expression. This wouldn’t be unprecedented, as many words or phrases have become figurative due to linguistic misinterpretations. (For example, 'I could care less,' another linguistic annoyance that has grown in popularity.)
3. Self-deprecating And Deprecate
The opponents of this word are rare but persistent. Historically, 'to deprecate' meant 'to pray against or ward off' or 'to strongly disapprove.' Terms like 'self-deprecating' were once considered incorrect, with 'self-depreciating' (literally meaning 'to lower one’s own value') being the preferred form.
However, 'self-depreciating' is fading into obscurity, kept alive mainly by those who insist on its correctness due to their belief that 'self-deprecating' is wrong. While they’re correct that 'self-deprecating' doesn’t align with its literal roots, standard English has now embraced it as acceptable.
This debate also surfaces in the software and coding industries, where 'deprecate' has come to mean 'to become obsolete.' While this usage is widely accepted, some argue it doesn’t logically follow, as seen in discussions like this blog’s comments.
For some reason, the term 'deprecate' became linked to computers, even though the connection isn’t logically consistent. Some argue, 'When a feature becomes obsolete, it makes more sense to say it’s been ‘depreciated,’ not ‘deprecated.’' (Interestingly, even this text editor rejects 'depreciated' as a valid word.)
A significant reason 'deprecate' has historically been used where 'depreciate' would fit better is that 'deprecate' is simply easier to pronounce and flows more smoothly. Regardless, software developers are unlikely to abandon its use, and 'self-depreciating' remains far less common than 'self-deprecating.'
2. Fulsome
Among the words on this list, 'fulsome' is likely the least frequently used. This rarity is probably one of the reasons people misuse it when they do attempt to use it.
Its most common usage is in the phrase 'fulsome praise,' which appears to be a positive expression. The word itself sounds uplifting, evoking associations with 'full' and 'wholesome.' Historically, this was indeed its intended meaning.
Then Samuel Johnson, often regarded as the father of the English dictionary, complicated matters. He and Noah Webster believed that 'fulsome,' which had a predominantly positive meaning for centuries (signifying 'abundant' or 'copious'), derived from the word 'foul.' To his credit, he was likely documenting the word’s usage during his time, and the Old English terms ful (meaning 'foul') and full do appear similar.
As a result, 'fulsome' acquired a negative connotation. However, many have advocated for its original meaning, with efforts dating back to at least 1868.
The word now carries both definitions simultaneously. Even former president Barack Obama used it in its older, positive sense, sparking some criticism. He also faced scrutiny for misusing 'enormity,' a word that nearly made this list. Like 'fulsome,' 'enormity' risks developing a new meaning due to its incorrect association with size.
While 'fulsome praise' typically refers to 'excessive and insincere praise,' some interpret it more positively. Historically, they aren’t entirely mistaken.
1. Peruse
This word often appears on lists of commonly misused terms, but its story is more nuanced. Similar to 'literally,' 'peruse' has a contentious dual meaning due to widespread misuse.
Unlike 'literally,' the newer definition addressing its 'misuse' emerged relatively recently, toward the end of the last century. A few dictionaries added this definition in the ’80s and ’90s, though not all dictionaries have accepted it yet.
The primary meaning of 'peruse' is 'to read or examine something carefully or thoroughly.' Its original sense aligns with words like 'scrutinize' or 'analyze.'
In contrast, the newer meaning is 'to skim, glance through casually, or browse.' These definitions are essentially opposites, with one implying a detailed review and the other suggesting a quick look.
It’s akin to the difference between reading Harry Potter and On the Origin of Species. One involves a deep dive into the sociopolitical intricacies of the wizarding world, while the other likely involves Wikipedia and a strong cup of coffee.
Some argue that this dual meaning is problematic and could lead to misunderstandings. However, words with opposing meanings are not uncommon in language.
These are known as contronyms, autoantonyms, or Janus words, and they highlight the playful and intriguing nature of language. For example, 'to bolt' can mean 'to flee' or 'to secure.' 'Fine' can signify 'excellent' or 'mediocre.' 'Sanction' can mean 'to approve' or 'to penalize.' Such words can be fascinating trivia, especially for those who enjoy word games like Scrabble.
The initial confusion might stem from the similarity between 'peruse' and 'browse,' or the prefix 'per-,' which can mean either 'through' or 'completely.' In its original sense, 'peruse' meant 'to use thoroughly' or 'to exhaust,' implying a meticulous examination of something.
Alternatively, the confusion may have arisen from simple misunderstanding. People might have heard 'peruse' and assumed it meant 'to read' rather than 'to scrutinize.' They then used the word to sound more sophisticated, unintentionally creating a new definition.
