Chapter I: Preface

The fact that this little book has passed through many editions, and now enters on a new one in revised form, is ample answer to its writer’s prayer when, with the aid of his Publishers, he launched it on an uncertain voyage over the seas of time--

“Go, little book, God send thee good passage,
And specially let this be thy prayer:
Unto them all that thee will read or hear,
Where thou art wrong, after their help to call,
Thee to correct in any part or all.”

(_Chaucer._)

It is with sincere gratitude to the Publishers that the author acknowledges the results achieved to have been due wholly to their kindly interest and indefatigable efforts. He ventures to hope that this new edition, and such subsequent editions as time may require, will be found to measure fully up to the expectations of the discriminating Public on which it depends for support.

F. H. V.

NEW YORK, _January, 1920_.

INTRODUCTORY

In these days when the vernacular of the street invades the home; when illiterate communications corrupt good grammar; and when the efforts of the teachers in the public schools are rendered ineffective by parents careless of their diction, constant attempts are being made to point out the way to that “Well of English undefiled” so dear to the heart of the purist. But, notwithstanding these efforts to correct careless diction, the abuse and misuse of words continue. The one besetting sin of the English-speaking people is a tendency to use colloquial inelegancies, slang, and vulgarisms, and against these, as against the illiteracies of the street, it is our duty to guard, nowadays more so than at any other time, since what is learnt in the schoolroom is soon forgotten or displaced by association with illiterate playfellows, or by occasionally hearing words misused at home.

Of the purely syntactical side of the English language, no less a master of its intricacies and niceties than Thomas Jefferson has said “I am not a friend to a scrupulous purism of style; I readily sacrifice the niceties of syntax to euphony and strength. It is by boldly neglecting the rigorisms of grammar that Tacitus has made himself the strongest writer in the world. The hyperesthetics call him barbarous; but I should be sorry to exchange his barbarisms for their wiredrawn purisms. Some of his sentences are as strong as language can make them. Had he scrupulously filled up the whole of their syntax, they would have been merely common. To explain my meaning by an English example, I will quote the motto of one, I believe, of the regicides, of Charles I., ‘Rebellion to tyrants is obedience to God.’ Correct its syntax ‘Rebellion against tyrants is obedience to God.’ It has lost all the strength and beauty of the antithesis.” And Jefferson continued: “Where strictness of grammar does not weaken expression, it should be attended to. But where, by small grammatical negligences, the energy of an idea is condensed, or a word stands for a sentence, I hold grammatical rigor in contempt.”

The English language is the most flexible language in the world. Indeed, it is so flexible that some of its idioms are positively startling. Could any phrase be more so than “I don’t think it will rain”?--Simple enough as an idiom but positively absurd when analyzed. We say “_I don’t think_ it will rain” when we mean “I do think it will not rain.” Again, we say “All over the world” when we should say “Over all the world,” and “the reason why” instead of “the reason that.” Usage has made our language what it is; grammatical rules strive to limit it to what it ought to be. In many instances usage has supplanted grammatical rules. Hundreds of words have been used by masters of English in ways that violate these rules. These uses are to be found to-day recorded by the dictionaries because lexicographers recognize it is their duty to present the language as they find it used by the people. It is to the people, not to the purists, that one must look for the enriching of our mother tongue. To them it is as impossible to confine the English language within the bonds of grammatical rules as it is to stem the tide of the sea. For them all matters that relate to English speech can be decided only by the law of good usage. This, and this alone is their Court of Last Resort. Withal, the observance of certain conventional rules does no harm if it helps him who speaks carelessly to produce a refined style of diction and writing, or if it teaches him who does not know, what to say and how to say it.

The secret of strength in speech and writing lies in the art of using the right word in the right place; therefore, careful speakers and writers should aim to command not only a large vocabulary but a wide and correct knowledge of the meanings of words. These can be most readily acquired by noting the meaning of every new word across which one may come in reading, and by constantly consulting a dictionary, preferably one which compares or contrasts words in such a manner as to bring out clearly the finer and nicer distinctions in their meanings--such distinctions as are necessary to the student to put him into possession of the essential differences of the words compared. Learn the meaning of words and your tongue will never slip. As Southey has said, “the greatest wisdom of speech is to know when, and what, and where to speak; the time, matter, and manner.”

The best asset in life is knowledge. Knowledge well-grounded may be secured by the systematic study of words. The desirability of exercising great care not only in the selection of words, but in marshaling them in their correct order must be apparent to any one familiar with some of the errors committed by writers who, notwithstanding the blunders they have made, have acquired reputation as authors of good English. Dr. Samuel Johnson, in his “Lives of the Poets,” is responsible for the following statement: “Shakespeare has not only shown human nature as it is, _but as it would be found in situations to which it cannot be exposed_”--a statement the absurdity of which can not fail to impress the reader.

In the King James Version of the Bible, quoted by some authorities as a standard of pure English, one may find the following, which occurs in Isaiah xxxvii. 36: “Then the angel of the Lord went forth and smote in the camp of the Assyrians a hundred and fourscore and five thousand; _and when they arose_ early in the morning, behold _they were all dead corpses_.” It can hardly be supposed that the translators meant to imply that the corpses arose early in the morning and found themselves dead. In the second act of “Julius Cæsar,” Shakespeare puts into the mouth of _Ligarius_ the following: “I will strive with things impossible; yea, get the better of them.” For power of perseverance _Ligarius_ is to be commended. Hallam, author of the “Literature of Europe,” declared that “No one as yet had exhibited the structure of the human kidneys, Vesilius having only examined them in dogs”--a declaration which implies that the dog must have bolted them whole. The London _Times_ has occasionally perpetrated absurdities which equal, if they do not surpass, these. In an obituary announcing the death of Baron Dowse it said, “A great Irishman has passed away. God grant that many as great, and who shall as wisely love their country, may follow him.” Here the intended wish is not that many great Irishmen may die but that there may be many to follow him who shall love their country as well as he did. An equally absurd example taken from an issue of the _Freeman’s Journal_ of the year 1890, announces “The health of Mr. Parnell has lately taken a very serious turn, and _fears of his recovery_ are entertained by his friends,” which, one may add, was rather unfriendly on their part. Isaac Disraeli in his “Curiosities of Literature” himself was guilty of an absurdity when he wrote, “It is curious to observe the various substitutes for paper _before its invention_.”

Errors of a different sort found their way even into our earlier dictionaries. Cockeram defined a lynx as “a spotted beast which hath the most perfect sight in so much as it is said that it can see through a wall.” The salamander he described as “a small venomous beast with foure feet and a short taile; it lives in the fire, and at length by its extreme cold puts out the fire.” Both of these definitions show the rudimentary stage of the knowledge of our forefathers in matters zoological.

Of slang no less eminent a writer of English than Richard Grant White has said, “Slang is a vocabulary of genuine words or unmeaning jargon, used always with an arbitrary and conventional signification,” and because “it is mostly coarse, low, and foolish,” certain slang terms and phrases have been included in the following pages, together with a few undesirable colloquialisms. These are included because the indiscriminate use of slang leads to slovenliness in speech. Not all slang is slovenly, incorrect, or vicious; much of it is virile, expressive, and picturesque. It is against the spread of that part of slang which is slovenly, incorrect, foolish, or vicious, that one should guard.

The purpose of these pages is not to dictate a precise course to be followed, nor to lay down rules that will prevent any speaker or writer from exercising his privilege as an individual of speaking or writing freely and independently the thoughts that are uppermost in his mind. It is, rather, to point out common errors which he may unconsciously commit, and to help him to avoid them and the vulgarisms of the street which have crept into the language, as well as those absurd blunders that have been recorded as the unconscious acts of persons qualified in other respects to rank as masters of English. To this end, and to this end only, the following vocabulary of errors in English has been compiled.

Thanks are due to the Funk & Wagnalls Company for permission to cite freely from the “Standard Dictionary of the English Language” in the following pages.

Mend your speech a little,
Lest it may mar your fortunes.

--SHAKESPEARE, _King Lear_, Act i, Sc. 1.

A DESK-BOOK OF

ERRORS IN ENGLISH

A

~a~, ~an~: Before an aspirated “h,” as in “Hibernianism,” the article “a” should be used. “A” is used when the next word begins with a consonant sound; “an” when it begins with a vowel or silent “h.” Though never so feebly aspirated, “h” has something of a consonant sound, and the article in this case ought to conform to the general principle, as in “_a_ historic introduction has generally _a_ happy effect to arouse attention.” To be correct one should say: _an_ island, _a_ Highlander; _an_ oysterman, _a_ hoister; _a_ hotel, _an_ onion; _a_ herb, _an_ heir; _a_ house, _an_ owl. Some persons do not aspirate the “h” in “herb”; when the “h” is not aspirated, the word takes the article “an,” not “a.”

~abandon~, ~forsake~, ~desert~: To _abandon_ is to give up entirely, as home and friends, and implies previous association with responsibility for or control; to _forsake_ is to leave or withdraw from a person or place, and suggests previous association with inclination or attachment. _Abandon_ and _forsake_ may be used in a favorable or unfavorable sense. _Desert_ is to leave permanently and especially without regard for the person or thing deserted; it is used only in an unfavorable sense and usually implies a breach of duty.

Some writers assert that _desert_ is used only “of causes or persons but not of things.” This is erroneous. There is ample evidence of its correct application to things; as the soldier _deserts_ his colors; the sailor _deserts_ his ship.

~abbreviate~, ~abridge~: Discriminate carefully between these words. To _abbreviate_ is to shorten a word so that a part stands for the whole; to _abridge_ is to condense or epitomize, as a report, in such manner that the spirit of the original is retained though it is expressed in fewer words.

~ability~, ~capacity~: These words are not exactly synonymous in meaning when used in the singular. _Ability_ is bodily or mental power; _capacity_ is receptive or containing power. _Ability_ when used in the plural embraces both meanings.

~about~. Compare ALMOST.

~above~: Inelegantly used as a noun by ellipsis of some noun as “He wrote the _above_,” for “the _above phrase_.” A more objectionable use is as an adjective; as, “I submit the _above_ facts” for “I submit the _above_-mentioned facts.” The use of the word “foregoing” or the more legal expression “before-mentioned” would better meet the case. Lamb, always inclined to be humorous, ridicules the expression by referring to “the _above_ boys and the below boys.”

~above~ should not be used for “more than.”

~acceptance~, ~acceptation~: Terms sometimes used interchangeably but incorrectly so. “Acceptance” is the state of being accepted; as the _acceptance_ of a position or office; _acceptation_ is the favorable admission of or acquiescence in a matter, or assent to a belief.

~accept of~: A visitor does not _accept of_ the hospitality of his host, but _accepts_ his hospitality. In this phrase “of” is redundant.

~accident~, ~injury~: These words are used sometimes incorrectly. An “accident” is that which happens without known or assignable cause or without deliberate intention; an “injury” is a hurt that causes physical or mental pain resulting, as from an accident. An accident may be injurious, and injuries painful; but accidents should never be spoken of as painful.

~accord~ should not be used for _give_. To _accord_ is “to render or concede as due and proper, as honor or veneration;” to _give_ is “to bestow as appropriate; as to _give_ thanks, praise, or welcome.”

~accord~, ~award~: The first of these words implies a spontaneous bestowal prompted by the dictates of the heart (Latin _cor_, _cord_-, heart); the concession or grant due to inherent merit that cannot be denied. _Award_ is colder and more unimpassioned and formal, and implies a grant only after careful observation and judgment. You _accord_ honor where honor is individually due, but _award_ a medal to a victor out of many (actual or possible) contestants.

~accord~, ~grant~: Privileges may be either _accorded_ or _granted_. To _accord_ is to concede as due and proper; grant; bestow; allow; to _grant_ is to bestow or confer; give, as a concession; allow. Some writers erroneously restrict the meaning of _accord_ to “agree with; suit.”

~acknowledgment~: Do not spell this word _acknowledgement_; preferably it is _acknowledgment_--omit “e” after the “g.”

~acme~. Compare CLIMAX.

~acoustic~ (_a._), ~acoustics~ (_n._): When the adjective is used the verb must agree in number with the noun which the adjective qualifies; as, “the _acoustic_ properties of this theater _are_ good.” But the noun though plural in form is singular in construction and always takes a verb in the singular as, “acoustics _is_ a branch of physics.”

~acquaintance~. Compare FRIEND.

~acquiesce~: Never use the preposition “with” after this word. You acquiesce _in_ an arrangement.

~act~, ~action~: Do not use one word for the other. A man does a good _act_ rather than a good _action_. An _act_ is accomplished by an exercise of power, whereas an _action_ is the fact of exerting such power and refers to the _modus operandi_. A party to a conveyance signifies his exercise of power by the formula “This is my _act_ and deed,” but the course pursued, the procedure--the fact of sale and purchase--may be referred to as a _wise action_.

~adherence~, ~adhesion~, ~attachment~: These terms are no longer synonymous, although originally so. _Adherence_ is used of things mental or spiritual, as principles, while _adhesion_ is applied to material things. The figurative meaning of _adhere_ appears in _adherence_, which is somewhat synonymous with _attachment_ and applies to mental conditions or principles. _Adhesion_ is generally reserved for physical attachment; as, “an _adhesion_ effected by glue,” although Dowden in his “Studies in Literature” (p. 230,) has written “Browning’s courageous _adhesion_ to truth never deserts him.” Far better is Johnson’s “Shakespeare’s _adherence_ to general nature has exposed him to the censure of critics, who form their judgments upon narrower principles.”

~adjective~ and ~adverb~: In selecting the correct word to use, bear in mind that where a phrase denoting manner can be substituted an adverb is required; where some tense of the verb _to be_ can be used the adjective is necessary; as, “The surgeon felt the limb _carefully_ and found that one of the bones was _broken_.”

~admission~. Compare ADMITTANCE.

~admit~, ~admit of~: Very different in meaning. “This gate _admits_ (affords entrance) to the grounds, but the size of the vehicle will not _admit of_ (allow or permit) its passing through.” Where Emerson says “Every action _admits of_ being outdone,” the simple _admit_ could not be substituted.

~admittance~, ~admission~: These words are not merely synonymous. _Admittance_ refers to place, _admission_ refers also to position, privilege, favor, friendship, etc. An intruder may gain _admittance_ to the hall of a society who would not be allowed _admission_ to its membership.

~adore~: Often misused as an emphatic for “like.” One may _adore_ that which one reveres or venerates or has profound regard or affection for, but not that which is pleasant to the palate. A child may _like_ cherries and _adore_ its mother, but it does not _adore_ cherries though it _likes_ its mother.

~advantage~, ~benefit~: Exercise care in using these words. _Advantage_ is that which gives one a vantage-ground, either for coping with competitors or with difficulties, needs, or demands; as, “to have the _advantage_ of a good education.” It is frequently used of what one has beyond another or secures at the expense of another; as, “to have the _advantage_ of another in an argument,” or “to take _advantage_ of another in a bargain.” _Benefit_ is anything that does one good.

~adverbs and the infinitive “to.”~ See SPLIT INFINITIVE.

~a few~. Condemned as employing the singular article before an adjective plural in sense. Usage sanctions _a hundred_ and _a_ great _many_, these expressions being viewed as collective. _A few_ is correct idiomatic English, with a sense distinctively different from that of the adjective used alone; as, “_A few_ men can be trusted” (_i. e._, a small but appreciable number). “_Few_ men can be trusted” (_i. e._, scarcely any) is practically equivalent to the negative statement “_Most_ men are _not_ to be trusted.”

~affect~. Compare EFFECT.

~against~: Never shorten this preposition into _again_. Such a usage is either dialectical or obsolete; and save in such usage there is no preposition _again_, or as sometimes spoken by persons careless with their speech _agen_.

~aggravate~, ~exasperate~, ~irritate~, ~provoke~: A fever or a misfortune may be _aggravated_, but not a person. The person is, perhaps, _exasperated_ or _provoked_. To _aggravate_, from the Latin _aggravo_ “to make heavy,” is to intensify, and applies only to conditions of fact; _provoke_, which calls forth anger, and _exasperate_, which heightens (or roughens) anger already provoked, allude to mental states. A patient may be so _irritated_ that his condition is _aggravated_. Here to _aggravate_ is to make worse; to _irritate_ is to annoy, provoke.

~ago~. Compare SINCE.

~agreeable~: Do not spell this word _agreable_. Its component parts are _agree_ plus _able_; always double the “e” before the “a.” _Agreeable_ is often erroneously used for _agreeably_ in correspondence. In this sense it is a commercial colloquialism, meaning “being in accordance or conformity,” as with some previous action. “_Agreeable_ to your request I have forwarded the goods.” Correctly, this should be rendered “_Agreeably_ with your request, etc.,” meaning “so as to be agreeable.”

~agreeably~. Compare AGREEABLE.

~aid~. Compare HELP.

~ain’t~: Avoid as inelegant. In such a phrase as “he ain’t,” it is both vulgar and ungrammatical; “he isn’t” is the preferred form. “The contraction _ain’t_ for isn’t is a vulgarism which ought not to need criticism. Yet ‘_’tain’t_ so’ said an educated preacher once in my hearing. The safe rule respecting contractions is never to use them in public speech. This is the instinct of a perfect taste.” AUSTIN PHELPS, _English Style_, lecture ii. p. 25.

~alienate~, ~antagonize~: _Alienate_ which means “estrange,” should never be used for _antagonize_, meaning “contend against” or “bring into opposition.” Thus, you _alienate_ your friend because you _antagonize_ his views.

~all~. See under ANY, WHOLE, and compare UNIVERSALLY.

~allege~: Do not spell this word _alledge_. It has no connection whatever with _ledge_, a shelf. _Allege_ is derived from the Latin _adlegio_, clear, and came to England with the Normans in the Norman French form _aligier_, Old French, _esligier_, from the Latin, _ex_, out, and _litigo_, to carry strife. It means, to assert.

~alleviate~, ~relieve~: Distinguished from relieve, as _alleviate_, by lightening (Latin _ad_, to, + _levis_, light), mitigates or makes less burdensome, and _relieve_, by removing (Latin _re_, again, + _levis_, lifting up), supplies what is wanting.

_Alleviation_ affects internal sensations, affording comparative ease, whereas _relief_ operates upon external conditions, removing pain. You _alleviate_ suffering and _relieve_ distress or poverty.

~all of them~: This phrase furnishes an excellent example of the common carelessness of speech. _Of_ signifies _from_ or _from out_; and whereas one can subtract a certain quantity _from_ an entire number, one can hardly refer to that number as still existing, in any shape whatever, if one subtracts the whole; for _from out_ implies a remainder. You may say “ship _some_, or any definite number, say _ten of them_,” or “ship _them all_,” but not “ship all of them.”

~all over the world~: A common but undesirable locution for “all the world over” or “over all the world.”

~allow~, ~permit~: Discriminate carefully between these words. _Allow_ implies no attempt at hindrance; _permit_ suggests authorization to do. One _allows_ that to which one interposes no objection or takes no step to prevent; one _permits_ that to which one gives express consent or authorization. In some parts of the United States _allow_ is used in the sense of “think, think likely, intend”; as, “he _allowed_ he would go”; “he _allowed_ to pay it.” It is used also in the sense of _say_. Both uses are wholly inadmissible.

~all right~: In best usage this term is always written as two words. Formerly _alright_ was in vogue, but it is now obsolete.

~allude~: This word is frequently used as synonymous with _mention_, but this is a careless and improper treatment of the term.

“Allude is in danger of losing its peculiar signification, which is
delicate and serviceable.... (It) means to indicate jocosely, to
hint at playfully.... Allusion is the by-play of language.”--R. G.
WHITE _Words and Their Uses_, ch. 5, p. 90. (S. H. & Co. ’70)

Allude is from the Latin _alludo_, treat lightly, from _ad_, at, and _ludo_, play, and should be used only with the sense of “to refer incidentally, indirectly, or by suggestion.” When you toast a hero by name, you certainly do not allude to him, although in so doing you make a pretty allusion to the heroic act with which his name is identified. In toasting Dewey, you do not allude to him but to his deeds off Manila.

~allusion~: Distinguish between this word and _illusion_. The former is derived from the Latin _ad_, at, + _ludo_, play (treat lightly), and means an incidental suggestion or passing reference, a species of innuendo; the latter is derived from _in_, on, + _ludo_ play (play tricks on), and means an unreal image presented to the senses.

~almost~: “An adjective in early English, the use of which has recently been revived, but it has not received the sanction of general usage.”--STANDARD DICTIONARY.

An “_almost_ Christian” is, however, a most expressive term, and would oftentimes more nearly express the truth than the absolute and unqualified “Christian.” Compare MOST.

~almost~, ~about~: These words are now commonly used as interchangeable synonyms. Formerly, such use was condemned. One may say of a task that it is “_almost_ completed” or that it is “_about_ completed” meaning that it is nearly accomplished or approaches closely to a completed state.

~already~: Although this word consists of two elements “all” and “ready,” it is not correctly spelled with two “l’s” but _already_.

~also~, ~likewise~: According to some writers _also_ merely denotes addition, and _likewise_ denotes connection with some person or thing that has previously been referred to. _Likewise_, which means “in like manner,” of necessity refers to states and conditions which are susceptible of manner, and should not be used indiscriminately for _also_, which properly connects facts and qualities. There is, for example, a considerable difference between the expressions “He spoke _also_” and “He spoke _likewise_.” In the second case, the matter of speech may be considered to have been to the same effect as the speech first alluded to. Lexicographers do not recognize this difference.

In practise, the choice between these words is largely to secure euphony and avoid repetition. _Also_ and _likewise_ affirm that what is added is like that to which it is added.--STANDARD DICTIONARY, p. 59.

~alternative~: “This word means a choice--one choice--between two things. Yet popular usage has so corrupted it, that it is now commonly applied to the things themselves, and not to the choice between them, as ‘You may take either _alternative_,’ ‘I was forced to choose between two _alternatives_.’ And, indeed, some people go so far as to say ‘several _alternatives_ were presented him.’”--E. S. GOULD, _Good English, Misused Words_, p. 45.

~always~, ~all ways~: Discriminate carefully between these terms. _Always_ means “during all time”; _all ways_ means “in every way.”

~amateur~, ~novice~: These terms are not synonymous. The distinction between them is that an _amateur_ may be the equal in skill of a professional, but a _novice_ is a beginner, and as such does not equal the professional in skill.

~ambidextrous~: Do not spell this word “_ambidexterous_.” It is derived from the Latin _dextra_, the right hand, and _ous_. Although the form _ambidexterous_ was common in England in the nineteenth century, it is not now in use.

~ambition~ should not be used to signify mild energy as it imports persistent and inordinate or steadfast desire. “The heat leaves me without _ambition_ for work” illustrates an altogether wrong use of the word.

~amid~, ~among~: Discriminate carefully between these words. _Amid_ denotes position when one object is surrounded by others from which it differs in nature or characteristics; _among_ denotes an intermingling of objects of the same nature. A man may be _amid_ enemies but not _among_ them; he may be _among_ friends but not _amid_ them.

~among~, ~between~: _Among_ may apply to any number; _between_ applies to two only.

~among one another~: A pleonasm. Say, rather, “_among themselves_.”

~among the rest~: Say “_among them_ was he,” or “_with the rest_ was he”--not _among the rest_. As “the rest” specifically excludes himself, it is impossible for him to figure in the midst of them.

~amount~, ~number~: _Amount_ is used of substances in mass; _number_ refers to the individuals of which such mass is constituted.

~an~: Modern practice does not permit of the use of _an_ before words beginning with an aspirated “h” as, “hair,” “hall,” “harangue,” “hero,” “history,” “historical,” “historian,” “house,” “hypothesis,” “heraldic,” etc. However, it may be correctly used before words in which the initial “h” is not aspirated. Compare A, AN.

~ancient~, ~antiquated~: Anything _antiquated_ is _ancient_ but not all things that are _ancient_ are _antiquated_; thus _ancient_ refers to things that existed in olden times; _antiquated_ to things obsolete or that have fallen behind the times.

~and~, (~the relative preceded by~): Where “and” is used to connect two clauses the clauses must be of similar construction. Therefore, do not say, “I met Florence on Wednesday, _and which_ was very pleasing to me,” which is not only grammatically incorrect, but is faulty in that it introduces an altogether useless word. Omit the “and.”

~and~, ~to~: These terms are not interchangeable. One does not “try _and_ do a task,” but “one tries _to_ do it.”

~anger~. Compare TEMPER.

~angry~. Compare MAD.

~angry at~, ~with~: A man may be angry _at_ or _about_ a hurt, never _with_ it; he is angry _at_ rather than _with_ a dog. We may be angry _with_ a person.

~annoyed at~, ~by~, ~with~: Note the correct use of the prepositions. “He will be annoyed _at_ or _by_ complaints” (if they are made); “He will be annoyed _with_ complaints” (because they will surely be made).

~another from~: Misused for _another than_; as, “judges of quite _another_ stamp _from_ his Majesty’s judges of Assize,” for “of quite _another_ stamp _than_,” etc.

~another such~: These words should be used always in this order. Avoid “_such another_ mistake,” as incorrect; “_another such_ mistake” is better.

~answer~, ~reply~: Discriminate carefully between these words. The Standard Dictionary, quoting Crabb says, “an _answer_ is made to a question; a _reply_ is made to an assertion;” but, it continues, “this statement is too limited, as an _answer_ is made to a charge as well as to a question.... A _reply_ is an unfolding, and implies both thought and intelligence. _Reply_ implies the formal dissection of a statement previously made; _answer_, a ready return of words to a question or charge that is made.”

~antagonize~, ~veto~, ~oppose~, ~forbid~: _Antagonize_ is distinguished from _veto_ or _oppose_. In the sense of “neutralize” or “deprive of active power” you may _antagonize_ a disease, while you _oppose_ or _veto_ a bill. To _forbid_ is to prohibit with authority; to _veto_ is to forbid authoritatively, with or without the right to do so. Compare ALIENATE.

~ante-~, ~anti-~: Discriminate carefully between these prefixes. _Ante-_ means “before;” _anti-_ means “opposite to.” _Ante_diluvian means “before the flood”; _Anti_christ means “opposed to Christ.”

~anticipate~, ~expect~, ~hope~: As anticipate implies “expectation with confidence and pleasure,” never use it where mere expectation is meant, which applies to that which we have good reason to believe will happen. “I _hope_ for a visit from my friend, though I have no word from him; I _expect_ it, when he writes that he is coming; and as the time draws near I _anticipate_ it,” for I look forward to it with confidence and pleasure.

~antiquated~. Compare ANCIENT.

~any~, ~all~, ~at all~: Avoid using _any_ adverbially in place of the adjective. Don’t say “Did you sleep _any_?” when you mean “Did you have _any_ sleep?” or “Did you sleep _at all_?”

Since _any_ individualizes or separates, signifying one or some out of a certain quantity or number, and thus differentiating from the whole or entire quantity or number, the word should not be used interchangeably with _all_. “He is the finest fellow of _all_” (not of _any_ = of _any one fellow_) “I have known.”

~any~, ~either~: _Any_ is used of more than two; _either_ of two only. Do not say “the United States or _either_ of them,” say, rather, “_any_ of them.”

~anyhow~, ~anyway~: “Forcible colloquial expressions often used to indicate that something is to be done, admitted, believed, or the like, be the circumstances, results or conditions what they may; as ‘_Anyhow_, I have lost it;’ ‘_anyway_, I am going.’ In place of these, such expressions as ‘In any event,’ ‘At any rate,’ ‘Be that as it may’ are ordinarily preferred.”--STANDARD DICTIONARY.

~any place~, ~some place~: “He won’t go _any place_;” “I want to go _some place_.” Say, rather, “He won’t go _anywhere_;” “I want to go _somewhere_.” These are solecisms, unfortunately common, which should be avoided. “Place” may be used as an indirect object only when preceded by a preposition.

~anyway~, ~anywhere~: Frequently misspelled _anyways_, _anywheres_. These words should never be written with a final _s_.

~apostasy~: In modern usage the last syllable is spelled with an _s_. The alternative spelling, _apostacy_, though occasionally used, is not preferred.

~apparent~, ~evident~, ~manifest~: Do not confound _apparent_ with _evident_, because what is _apparent_ may or may not be _evident_. That is _apparent_ which appears to be, as _apparent_ sincerity; but appearances may be false. Things are not always what they seem. “That is _evident_ of which the mind is made sure by some inference that supplements the fact of perception. That is _manifest_ which we can lay the hand upon: _manifest_ is thus stronger than _evident_, as touch is more absolute than sight.” See HEIR.

~appear~, ~seem~: Discriminate carefully between these words. _Appear_ refers to that which manifests itself to the senses; _seem_ applies to that which is manifest to the mind on reflection. _Seem_ gives or creates the impression of being. A man may _seem_ honest but cannot _appear_ so.

~appreciate~: This verb has the intransitive sense of “to increase in value,” despite the fact that some critics (though without justifiable cause) object to its use in such a phrase as “real estate _appreciates_ as the city grows.”

~apprehend~, ~comprehend~: These terms are neither synonymous nor interchangeable. To _apprehend_ is to perceive; to _comprehend_ is to understand.

~approach~: Sometimes incorrectly used for _address_, _petition_, etc. One is _approached_ by indirect or covert intimation, suggestion, or question, which he may encourage if he will, or may put aside without formal refusal. _Approach_ is often used in a bad sense, implying the use of bribery or intrigue. Do not say “the teachers have _approached_ the Educational Department for longer intermissions,” when you mean “the teachers have _petitioned_,” etc.

~apt~, ~likely~: Words sometimes misapplied. _Apt_ implies natural fitness or tendency; _likely_ applies to a contingent event considered as very probable.

~aren’t~: For _are not_ when the subject follows; as, “Aren’t you?” “Aren’t they?” The best conversational usage contracts the verb when the subject precedes: “we’re not,” “you’re not,” etc. Similarly we say “I’m not,” “I’ll not.”

~argue~. Compare AUGUR.

~arraign~ ~at~, ~before~, ~for~, ~on~, ~after~: “The criminal was arraigned _at_ the court” is incorrect; a criminal is arraigned _at_ the bar; _before_ the court; _for_ a crime; _on_ an indictment; _after_ the discovery of his crime.

~articles~: Two or more words connected by _and_ referring to different things should each be preceded by the article; but when they denote the same thing, the article is commonly used with the first only. “_The_ black-and-white horse” would denote one horse marked with the two colors black and white. “_The_ black _and the_ white horse” would denote two horses, one black and the other white.

~as ... as~, ~so ... as~. The STANDARD DICTIONARY says: A shade of difference in their meanings, as strictly used in comparisons, is often neglected. _So ... as_ suggests that, in the comparison of the persons or things mentioned, there is present in the mind of the speaker a consciousness of a considerable degree of the quality considered; _as ... as_ does not carry this impression. In “John is not _as_ tall _as_ James” there is no implication that the speaker regards either John or James as tall; there is merely a comparison of their heights. So, too, in “John is not _as_ old _as_ James” there is merely a comparison of ages. But if one says, “John is not _so_ tall _as_ James,” though the _so_ is not emphasized, there is understood usually to be a reference more or less distinct to something uncommon in the height of James as compared with the stature of other men or of other boys of his age; the speaker regards James as being _tall_. “John is not _so_ old _as_ James” suggests that, in some relation or other, James is thought of as being _old_; as in “James is taller than John.” “Yes, but my boy is not _so old as_ yours.”

In affirmative sentences _so_ ... _as_ can not properly be used except in certain restricted constructions, and where the quality referred to is to be emphasized. It occurs oftenest in sentences that, though affirmative in form, carry a negative suggestion; as, “_So_ good a cook _as_ Polly is hard to find,” that is, “It is not easy to find _so_ good a cook _as_ Polly.”

Few knights of the shire [in the 17th century] had libraries _so_
good _as_ may now perpetually be found in a servants’ hall.

MACAULAY, _History_, ch. 3.

That is, “not many knights of the shire,” etc. In a simple affirmative comparison like “Jane is _as_ good a cook _as_ Polly,” _so_ ... _as_ is not used.

In interrogative sentences, as in negative sentences, a consciousness more or less distinct of a considerable degree of the quality referred to is conveyed by _so_ ... _as_, but not by _as_ ... _as_. “Is John _as_ old _as_ James?” and “Is your uncle _so_ old _as_ my father?” convey different impressions as to what the speaker means by _old_. In the question where _as_ ... _as_ is used there is no implication of considerable age in _old_.

~as far as~, ~so far as~: Discriminate carefully between these terms. _As far as_ expresses distance; _so far as_ expresses limitation, as of one’s knowledge. Therefore, “_so far as_ I know” is preferable to “_as far as_ I know.”

~as if~. Compare LIKE.

~as~, ~so~: Discriminate between these words; _as_ is used in comparing persons or things of approximate caliber or size; _so_ when the comparison is unequal.

~as~, ~that~: Discriminate carefully between these words. _As_ is often improperly used for _that_. Do not say “not _as_ I know of”; “I do not know _as_ I shall go.” Say, rather, “Not _that_ I know of”; “I do not know _that_ I shall go.”

~ascent~ must be distinguished from ~assent~, its homonym. The former is derived from Latin _ad_, to, + _scando_, climb, and means the act of climbing; the latter is from Latin _ad_, to, + _sentio_, feel, and means expression of concurrence in a proposition, acquiescence.

~aside~: An Americanism for _apart_. Not “auxiliary words _aside_,” but “auxiliary words _apart_.”

~asparagus~. Compare SPARROW GRASS.

~assent~. Compare ASCENT.

~assume~, ~perform~, ~discharge~: We _assume_ responsibilities to _perform_ a task and thus _discharge_ our duty. Duties are not performed.

~astonish~, ~surprise~: Terms which some writers claim are not synonymous or interchangeable, but usage has made them so. To _astonish_ is “to affect with wonder and _surprise_”; to _surprise_ is “to strike with _astonishment_ by some unexpected act or event.”

Obviously, when one says, “I am surprised,” he uses an expression exactly equivalent to “I am struck with astonishment,” which is the equivalent of “I am astonished.”

~at~: Commonly but erroneously used for _to_, as an intensive in such phrases as “Where have you been _at_?” “Where are you going _at_?” Used also occasionally to denote place: as, “Where does he live _at_?” Wherever used in such connections the word is redundant.

~at all~: These words, supposed to have an intensive effect, are frequently unnecessarily introduced. “It doesn’t rain _at all_,” would be just as expressive if written “It doesn’t rain.”

~at auction~: In England this expression is known as an Americanism. There, goods are put up _to_ auction and are sold _by_ it--that is _by_ offering them to the highest bidder. “_At_ private sale” also is peculiar to America.

~at best~: An erroneous form for “at _the_ best.”

~at~, ~in~: Always _in_ a country; either _at_ or _in_ a city, town, or village; _at_, if the place is regarded as a point; _in_, if it is inclusive; as, “We arrived _at_ Paris;” “He lives _in_ London.”

~at length~: The assumption that _at length_ means the same as ~at last~, and is therefore superfluous, is an error. Both _at length_ and _at last_ presuppose long waiting; but _at last_ views what comes after the waiting as a finality; _at length_ views it as intermediate with reference to action or state that continues, or to results that are yet to follow; as, “I have invited him often, and _at length_ he is coming”; “I have invited him often, and _at last_ he has come.”

_At length_ is used also of space; as, “He wrote me _at length_” (that is, fully or in detail). _At last_ is used of time; as, “He came back _at last_.”

~at that~: A vulgarism of speech, sometimes defended on the ground that the phrase is elliptical, the omitted word or phrase being computation, showing, or feature of the case. Avoid the usage, however.

~at you~: As a substitute for _with you_ this is an unpardonable vulgarism, as in the sentence “I am angry _at_ (for _with_) you.”

~audience~, ~spectator~: An _audience_ is a number of persons assembled to listen to a play, lecture, debate, etc.; a _spectator_ is an eye-witness as of a pageant, panorama, etc.

~aught~, ~ought~: The former means anything whatever, any (even the smallest) part; the latter, as a noun, is a corruption of _naught_, a cipher. _Naught_ is of course _not aught_, that is, not anything, thus nothing, and hence the figure 0, a cipher. Careful speakers do not replace this word by _ought_.

~augur~: With the sense of _betoken_ or _portend_, this word must not be confounded with _argue_. The racecourse may _augur_, but certainly does not _argue_ poverty.

~authentic~, ~authoritative~, ~genuine~: Often misused as synonymous terms. That which accords with the facts and comes from the source alleged is _authentic_; that which has the character represented and is true to its own claims is _genuine_; that which possesses or emanates from proper authority and is entitled to acceptance as such is _authoritative_.

Trench in “On the Study of Words” (p. 189), says: “A _genuine_ work is one written by the author whose name it bears; an _authentic_ work is one which relates truthfully the matters of which it treats.” And an _authoritative_ work is one which contains the results of the observations and conclusions of an author of special ability in subjects of which he is an acknowledged master.

~auxiliary~: In this word the letter “_l_” is never doubled.

~avails~: An Americanism for _profits_ or _proceeds_.

~averse from~, ~averse to~: Originally _averse from_ was commonly used to designate the turning from a subject, as from repugnance. Present usage prefers _averse to_, denoting aversion in the sense of hostility toward the subject.

~avocation~, ~vocation~: Discriminate carefully between these words. An _avocation_ is that which takes one from his regular calling. It is a minor or irregular occupation. The term is used loosely, sometimes by good writers, for _vocation_, which signifies the main calling or business of life. An _avocation_ is a diversion.

~award~. Compare ACCORD.

~aware~. Compare CONSCIOUS.

~awful~, ~awfully~: _Awful_ should not be used of things which are merely disagreeable or annoying, nor in the sense of excessive, exceedingly bad, great, or the like. It is sometimes incorrectly used to designate surprise or distress, as, an _awful_ mouth, that is, a mouth of surprising size. Do not say “He created an _awful_ scene,” when you mean that the scene he created was _distressing_. Things cannot be “_awfully_ nice” nor persons “_awfully_ jolly,” notwithstanding the sanction of colloquial usage. Phelps relates the following: “Two travelers at Rome once criticized Michael Angelo’s statue of Moses. ‘Is it not _awful_?’ said one. ‘Yes,’ answered the other, ‘it is _sublime_.’ ‘No, no!’ rejoined the other, ‘I meant _awfully_ ugly!’” That is _awful_ only which inspires awe.

~aye~, ~ay~: Meaning always, ever, and pronounced ê (e, as in eight), is to be distinguished from _aye_, meaning yes, and pronounced ai (ai, as in aisle).

B

~back on~, ~go~. Compare GO.

~back~ or ~back up~, with the signification of _uphold_ or _support_ has the countenance of high authority, but is still, except in the sporting sense, regarded as savoring of slang.

~back down~: A colloquialism for _withdraw_ as from an argument, a position or contest.

~back out~: A colloquialism for to _withdraw_ from or refuse to carry out an agreement.

~back talk~: A vulgarism for any impertinent reply; as, “Don’t give me any _back talk_.” Persons of refinement say, “Don’t be impertinent,” or, “stop your impertinence.”

~bad~: This word is the antithesis of _good_ and embraces various degrees of wickedness or evil as well as those of unsatisfactoriness. _Bad_ is a term often misapplied. One may say “a _bad_ boy,” “a _bad_ egg,” but not a “_bad_ accident”; say rather, “a _serious_ accident.” In referring to things which are necessarily _bad_, or the reverse of good, select some less pleonastic adjective. An _acute_, a _severe_ or _gnawing_ pain would be preferable expressions to a _bad_ pain.

~bad egg~: An undesirable expression used colloquially to designate a worthless person: not used in polite society.

~bad grammar~: This phrase has been condemned as false syntax by some persons unfamiliar with the different meanings of the word _bad_. The phrase is not only good English but is cited by the STANDARD DICTIONARY as a correct example under the word _bad_ to illustrate the meaning “containing errors or faults; incorrect; as _bad grammar_.”

~badly~: This word should never be used for _greatly_ or for _exceedingly_, _very much_, etc. Do not say “Your father will miss you _badly_”; say rather, “... will miss you greatly.” Instead of “I wanted that _badly_” say “I wanted that _very much_” or “I was in _great_ need of that.” “The carpet needs to be beaten _badly_” is a ludicrous blunder for “The carpet _badly_ (or very much) needs to be beaten”--the construction connecting _badly_ with _beating_ rather than with _needs_ which it qualifies.

~balance~, ~remainder~: These terms are not synonymous. A bookkeeper obtains a _balance_ as by addition or subtraction. A mathematician deducts a smaller sum from a greater and obtains a _remainder_. Do not say “The _balance_ of the evening was devoted to music,” but “the _rest_ of the evening....”

~ball up (to)~, is slang for “confuse,” “embarrass” either of which is to be preferred.

~baluster~: Compare BANISTER.

~band, beat the~. Compare BEAT.

~banister~ is a corrupt form of _baluster_ which is one of the individual pillars which unite to form a _balustrade_.

~banquet~: This word designating a sumptuous feast in honor of some person or event should not be used as the synonym of “dinner” or “supper,” which both designate less formal functions.

~bare~ in the sense of uncover must be differentiated from its homonym _bear_, to suffer or endure.

~base~, ~bass~: Discriminate carefully between these terms. _Base_ means the bottom or support of anything, that part on which it rests; also, that which is low. _Base_ is sometimes used in the sense of _found_; as, “he _based_ his argument on the evidence.” In chemistry it is a compound which unites with acid to form a salt. _Bass_ is the name of various sea-fishes; also the name of a tree and of things made from its fiber. In music the _bass_ consists of the lowest tones in the scale, instrumental or vocal.

~bat~: Formerly a provincialism but now a vulgarism for “wink.” Do not say “Quit _batting_ your eyes at me;” say rather, that is, if you must say anything of the kind, “Stop winking at me.”

~bathos~ and ~pathos~ are sometimes separated by only a fine line, and it may be rather a matter of intelligence than of philology that fails to make use of the desirable term. _Pathos_ is from the Greek _pascho_, suffer, and designates the quality that awakens the tender emotions, as compassion or sympathy; _bathos_ is from the Greek _bathys_, deep, and signifies a ridiculous descent from the lofty to the depths of commonplace.

~battalion~: In this word the “t” is always doubled, as in _battle_, from which it is derived; it is, however, correctly spelled with only one “l.”

~bear~. See BARE.

~beastly~: A British colloquialism expressive of disgust or contempt; as, “This is _beastly_ weather”; sometimes even used adverbially; as, “I was _beastly_ tired.” This locution, essentially in bad taste, though often affected by college students and others who should know better, seems never to be defensible except in the phrase “_beastly_ drunk,” and even this is objectionable as being a libel on the beast. Compare NASTY.

~beat~ should not be used for “defeat.”

~beat it~ should not be used for “go away” or “clear out.”

~beat the band~: A vulgarism for “to surpass or be immeasurably superior to.”

~because~: Although this word means “for the reason” it is often used in the same sentence with this expression--“The reason why I do this is _because_ (= for the reason that) I please myself by doing it.” Substitute _that_ for _because_.

~because why~: A term common among the illiterate. _Because_ is used correctly when it precedes the explanation of an act; _why_, when used interrogatively. Do not say “I did it, _because why_”; here omit “why” and continue with the reason for the act. Instead of “I did not come sooner; _because why_?” “I was delayed.” Say “I did not come sooner; why? I was delayed.”

~beef~ is coarse slang for “boast” or “brag.”

~begin~: _Commence_ is frequently substituted for _begin_ work where the change should not be made. _Begin_ is applied to order of time; _commence_ relates to the work on hand with reference to its subsequent completion. The man who strikes the first blow _begins_ a fight, but both parties to a law suit _commence_ litigation at the moment when they severally undertake the first step.

~begin by him~: This is incorrect; say, “begin _with_ him.”

~behave~: Strictly means “comport.” When used with a reflexive pronoun as, “Behave _yourself_,” this word is correctly applied. When the pronoun is omitted as, “Will you _behave_?” the sentence is incomplete and the expression a mere colloquialism.

~being~: The phrases “is _being_ built,” “was _being_ built,” and kindred forms of English imperfects passive are condemned by certain critics as recent and unwarranted; Fitzedward Hall points out that they are neither recent nor unwarranted, and have been used by the best writers for a century. He says: “Prior to the evolution of _is being built_ and _was being built_, we possessed no discriminate equivalents of _ædificatur_ and _ædificabatur_; _is built_ and _was built_, by which they were rendered, corresponding exactly to _ædificatus est_ and _ædificatus erat_.”--_Modern English_, App., p. 350.

_Is growing_, _was growing_, indicate an activity from within; as, the tree _is growing_ (from its own internal forces); _is being grown_, _was being grown_, the activity of some agent from without; as, the plant _is being grown_ (by the gardener). So also, and strikingly, _is bleeding_ (as from a wound), and _is being bled_ (as by a surgeon).

~belong~: Used absolutely; as, “He doesn’t _belong_,” “We all _belong_” (_sc._, to this organization, society, community, or in the place, sphere, or associations where actually present): recent in the United States, and apparently rapidly spreading in popular use, though with no literary support.

~beneficence~, ~benevolence~: Although formerly the meanings of these words were distinct they are not so any longer, and _benevolence_ now includes _beneficence_. “_Beneficence_, the quality of being beneficent or charitable: _benevolence_ is the disposition to seek the well-being or comfort of others; charitableness.” According to the etymology and original usage _beneficence_ is the doing well, _benevolence_, the wishing or willing well to others; but _benevolence_ has come to include _beneficence_ and to displace it. We should not now speak of _benevolence_ which did not help.

~benefit~. Compare ADVANTAGE.

~bequest~, ~devise~, ~legacy~: These words are not exactly synonymous. A _bequest_ is a leaving by will of personal property of any kind; a _devise_ is a gift of land by a last will and testament; a _legacy_ is personal property bequeathed. _Devise_ is sometimes used loosely for any testamentary disposition of property but, applied strictly, refers specifically to land, whereas _legacy_ applies to any kind of personal property.

~berth~, ~birth~: Discriminate carefully between these words. _Berth_, which is probably derived from _bear_, (Anglo-Saxon _beran_, carry), means a place of accommodation, whether as bunk or bed, apartment, or engagement. _Birth_, similarly pronounced and derived, means “a coming into existence.”

~beside~, ~besides~: Much confusion exists, and has long existed regarding these words. Gould, who in his work on “Good English” explained the use of these terms in 1856, from which Webster borrowed in 1876, states that “besides is always a preposition and only a preposition.” This is not so. It is sometimes an adverb when used in its prepositional sense of “by the side (of).”

Of _besides_ as a preposition, Skeat, in his “Etymological Dictionary,” says:--“The more correct form is _beside_; ‘besides’ is a later development, due to the habit of using the suffix -es to form adverbs; the use of _besides_ as a preposition, is, strictly incorrect, but is as old as the 12th century.”

_Beside_ is also a preposition in the sense of “in comparison with” and “physically or mentally remote from.” “_Beside_ your work his is poor”; “_Beside_ the point at issue”; “The poor fellow is _beside_ himself.” _Besides_ as a preposition means “in addition to” or “except.” “_Besides_ wealth he had health”; “_Besides_ death he knew no fear.” As an adverb it means “moreover” or “other than.” “_Besides_, it is late”; “He was heedless of all the world _besides_.” _Beside_, then, conveys the idea of conjunction, separation or comparison; whereas _besides_ implies addition or exception.

~between~. Compare AMONG.

~between you and I~: This is incorrect. Both pronouns are objects of the preposition _between_ and should be in the objective case; say “_between you and me_.” Compare YOU AND I.

~bevy~: A word sometimes misapplied. It is applied correctly to a company of girls, a flock of birds, as, quail, grouse, or larks; also to a small herd of deer or heifers.

~big~, ~great~: Discriminate carefully between these words. _Big_ is not synonymous with _great_. A man may be physically _big_ but is not necessarily _great_ mentally. Emerson was mentally a _great_ man, and although tall physically he was not a _big_ man. _Big_ and _large_ are synonymous, but while _big_ is more emphatic, _large_ is a more refined or elegant term.

~big-bug~: A slang term used to denote a person of consequence, actual or self-imagined. Say rather, “A prominent” or, “an important man.”

~big-wig~: A slang term common in England for a person in authority or of prominence. Compare BIG-BUG.

~bird~: In the phrase “You’re a bird” an inane and, therefore, undesirable expression.

~bit~: Primarily a _bite_, a small _piece_, or by extension a small quantity; as, a _bit_ of bread, a _bit_ of fun. By error, the word is sometimes applied to liquids; as, “there is not a _bit_ of water on the farm.” But when reference is to liquid to be drunk, it is more discriminating to say, not a _bit_, but a _sip_.

~blame on~: Indefensible slang. We blame a person _for_ a fault, or lay the blame _upon_ him. Not, as in a New York newspaper, after the last Presidential election, “I do not _blame_ the defeat _on_ the President,” but “I do not _blame_ the President _for_ the defeat,” or “I do not _lay the blame ... upon_,” etc.

~blow~: A colloquialism for boastful talk, which is expressed less coarsely but with as much force by “bluster” or “brag.”

~blowhard~: A coarse term for “boaster” synonymous with windbag; not used by persons of refinement. Compare WINDBAG.

~boiled shirt~: A slang phrase designating a white linen shirt. It originated in the Western States of America but its use is widespread among persons addicted to careless diction.

~boost, to~: A vulgarism for “to assist”; used also as a noun, as “He gave me a _boost_ in business” for “He assisted me....”

~borne~, the past participle of _bear_, must not be confounded with the adjective ~born~. “Man is _born_ to sorrow, which may or may not be well _borne_.”

~both~: When _both_ is used in a negative sentence, the meaning intended is sometimes doubtful. “_Both_ applicants were not accepted.” Were both applicants rejected? Or, was one rejected and the other accepted? Or, was neither applicant accepted or rejected? A similar confusion of sense occurs in some negative sentences containing _all_, when _not_ is misplaced; this practically contradicts the sense intended, or makes it ambiguous; as, _all_ will not go, that is, _not all_ will go--meaning some will and some will not go. “_All_ were not of that mind” (probably) _not all_ were of that mind, or (possibly) _all_ were of a different mind or minds from the one spoken of. So, also, when all is used substantively. “_All_ that glisters is not gold”--_not all_ that glisters is gold. A peculiarity of _both_ is that it can not be negatived by connecting _not_ immediately with it, except elliptically in sentences of unusual form that are obviously arranged for the prevention of misunderstanding--as in correcting the doubtful meaning of the sentence cited above, “_Both_ applicants were not accepted.” If one asks, in order to clear its confusing impression, “Were _both_ rejected?” the reply may properly be, “_Not both_ were rejected; one was rejected and one accepted”--a connection of _not_ with _both_ that is usually inadmissible. The confusion in meaning of a negative sentence containing _both_ will be best avoided by making the sentence affirmative; “_Both_ applicants were rejected,” “One of the two applicants was rejected and the other accepted,” etc.--STANDARD DICTIONARY.

~both~: As an adjective or pronoun _both_ emphasizes the idea of _two_. It has been well defined as “the two, and not merely one of them”; it can not properly, therefore, be connected with or refer to more than two objects. As a conjunction, however, _both_ has a more extended meaning and employment than it has as an adjective or a pronoun; thus, it is permissible to say, “He lost all his live stock--_both_ horses, cows, and sheep.” _Both_, as so used, emphasizes the extent or comprehensiveness of the assertion. The use has been challenged, but has abundant literary authority, and antedates Chaucer.

~both alike~: A pleonasm. Two things may be _alike_ but _alike_ should not be used as an adjective. _Both_ daughters may be _like_ their mother, but to say they are _both alike_, meaning that they resemble each other, is incorrect. _Both_ should never be used with _alike_.

~bounce~: A colloquialism for “discharge” or “eject forcibly,” an apt rather than an elegant term.

~bound~: This word may be the participial adjective of _buā_, prepare, or the past participle of _bindan_, bind. The words should not be confused. “I am _bound_ to have it:” yes, if constrained or compelled; but no, if merely resolved. It is true that in the United States a colloquial usage to this effect has become popular, but it is none the less an error of speech.

~bountiful~, ~plentiful~: _Bountiful_ which originally meant “generous in bestowing gifts” has gradually come to mean “showing abundance,” “yielding in plenty.” In the latter sense it is synonymous with _plentiful_.

~bourne~: From the French _borne_, bourne (Latin _bodina_, limit), means that which marks the end, and hence the end or goal. It does not mean _country_ which it is so often supposed to mean--presumedly from Hamlet’s “undiscovered country, from whose _bourne_ no traveller returns.” Readers who on this authority construe _bourne_ as country make the mistake of substituting the word “which” for the phrase “whose” bourne.

~brand-new~ often incorrectly written _bran-new_. The original and etymologically correct form of this word is _brand-new_, from _brand_, meaning “fire” or “burning,” and _new_ meaning “fresh”--the “fire-new” of Shakespeare (Twelfth Night, act. iii., sc. 2) is best explained by his own words, “fire-new from the mint,” meaning “fresh and bright” like a new coin, as being newly come from the fire and forge. _Bran-new_ is a colloquialism.

~brand of Cain~: By a peculiar perversion of facts, this is invariably referred to as a stigma similar to the scarlet letter with which Hester Prynne was indeed branded. But the brand was an act of mercy and “a token of Divine protection,” for “the Lord set a mark on Cain, lest any finding him should slay him.”

~bravery~, ~courage~: Inasmuch as the courageous may be without _bravery_ and the brave without _courage_ a careful discrimination should always be made in the use of these terms. _Courage_ is rather a virtue of the mind, whereas _bravery_ is temperamental. Your _courage_ may ooze out, as it were, at the palms of your hands, but bravery which is instinctive, remains. For this reason bravery may often be misplaced, true _courage_--which ever seeks to do the right thing at the right time, regardless of results--never.

~bred and born~: An erroneous sequence of words. One is _born_ before one is _bred_; therefore say “_born and bred_.”

~brevity~, ~conciseness~: Words sometimes misused. _Brevity_ is commonly applied to shortness of time, but it has the sanction of literary usage for _conciseness_ or condensation of language into few words. A speech may be _concise_ yet comprehensive; that is, it may cover the entire range of a subject in few words and as such be characterized by _conciseness_; another may be short in duration, the theme being one that does not permit of expansion and as such be characterized by _brevity_.

~bring~, ~carry~, ~fetch~: Discriminate carefully between these words. _Bring_ expresses motion toward some person, place, or thing, and implies to bear from a distant place to one nearer; _carry_ expresses motion away from; _fetch_ expresses motion from a given place to another, as for the purpose of obtaining some article, and return to the given place with the article required. _Go and fetch_ is pleonastic.

~Britannia~: This word is often misspelled “Brittannia.” It is from Britain and should be spelled with only one “t” but two “n’s.”

~broach~, ~brooch~: Discriminate carefully between these terms. Although both are derived from the same source etymologically (Latin, _broca_, a spike) they are now widely different in meaning. A _broach_ may mean “a boring into an opening, a spit, or a spire.” It is also the name of the boring bits or drills used in carpentering or engineering. It means also “to approach any one in conversation” on some particular subject. A _brooch_ is “a breastpin or an ornamental pin or clasp used as for display or to fasten some part of a dress.”

~broke~: A word often misused for “broken.” Do not say “I’m _broke_” say rather “broken”--~To go broke~: A colloquial phrase common in commercial circles for “to become bankrupt.” These terms are avoided by persons who cultivate a refined diction.

~brothers~: Distinguished from ~brethren~. The one applies to those who are _brothers_ by birth, whereas the other indicates fraternal relationship in some order or society.

~building~, ~being built~: There are advocates of either form. Fitzedward Hall has shown conclusively that “is being built” has been used by the best writers for a century or more, and now has universal literary sanction. Richard Whately, George P. Marsh, Richard Grant White, and other critics have strenuously objected to this use. In literature there is support enough for their views: Milton wrote “while the Temple of the Lord _was building_.” Dr. Johnson, in writing to Boswell, of his _Lives of the Poets_ said “My ‘Lives’ _are reprinting_;” Macaulay followed the same style and wrote “Chelsea Hospital _was building_”; “while innocent blood _was_ shedding.” _Being_ has a special modern use with passive forms of verbs to express progressive action. For example, is, are, or _was being_ built, expresses what is expressed also by is, are, or _was building_, _a-building_, or _in building_. Both forms are permissible, but “is _being built_” is more frequently heard and, perhaps, preferable.

~building~, ~construction~: Alfred Ayres (_Some Ill-used Words_, p. 44) quotes the following example of the misuse of these words: “These two advisory bodies have recommended the _building_ of battleships. It is understood that Mr. Long is opposed to the _construction_ [constructing] of any armorclads.” Mr. Ayres points out that if _building_ is correct--and it is--then _construction_ is incorrect and the correct word to use is _constructing_.

~bum~: A vulgar term for “an idle, dissolute fellow; a loafer,”--~on the bum~. A vulgar phrase used to denote that that to which it is applied is of poor quality, badly done, or has been subjected to careless treatment.

~busted~: A slang term for financially broken, not used by persons accustomed to a refined diction. Compare BROKE.

~but~, ~however~: Discriminate carefully between these words. Do not say “He is suffering--not, _however_, acutely;” say rather, “He is suffering, _but_ not acutely.”

~but that~: Implies a negative, but when it follows another negative phrase (as “I _don’t know but that_ I did it”) it suggests the positive or, as in the example given above, the likelihood or possibility that some act has been done. Locutions of this kind should be avoided as inelegant, say rather “I may have done it.”

~but what~: This is equivalent to _but that which_ and is an incorrect expression for _but that_. “I am not sure _but what_ I shall be there” should be written _but that_, and indicates the possibility or even probability of being there; but note that if the _but_ be omitted from the latter (and correct) usage, the indication is the reverse. Compare BUT THAT.

~but yet~: Should not be used when either _but_ or _yet_ is sufficient by itself; as, “Wealth may seek us; _but_ wisdom must be sought”; not _but yet_. When, however, Archbishop Trench says, “_But yet_ these pains hand us over to true pleasures” (_Study of Words_, p. 232), each conjunction has its distinct adversative sense. This appears still more clearly in “Ye are but common men, _but_ [on the contrary] _yet_ [notwithstanding that fact] ye think with minds not common.”--COLERIDGE _Wallenstein_ 2, 3.

~bute~: A vulgar corruption of “beauty” used by illiterates; as, “She’s a _bute_.” Correctly “She is a beauty” or “a beautiful woman.”

~butt in, to~: A vulgar although expressive phrase meaning “to interfere officiously or inquisitively with,” not used by persons accustomed to refined diction.

~by~: Properly used before the agent or doer; _with_ before the instrument or means; as, “He was killed _by_ the assassin _with_ a dagger.” But active forces are often thought of as agents, so that we properly say “The house was destroyed _by_ fire.” “His friends were displeased _by_ the selection of another chairman” means that the action displeased them; “his friends were displeased _with_ the selection,” etc., means that the man selected was not their choice.

“A gentleman _by_ the name of Hinkley.”

“Oh, no! You mean ‘A gentleman _of_ the name of Hinkley.’ This is English, you know.”

One may say “I know no one _of_ the name of Brown,” or “I know no one _by_ the name of Brown”; but the meaning is different. One might know a man _of_ the name of Brown, but know him _by_ the name of Smith. It is better to say simply “a man named Brown.”--STANDARD DICTIONARY.