Improving English
If you sincerely write what you feel, you will catch the attention of your readers. I have read that the writing style that touches the heart of the reader springs from a sincere heart.
Words
Prosaic: adjective (Formal) lacking interest, imagination and variety; boring. [This meaning was from dictionary.cambridge.org]
If you are in love with the career you are in, you will never find your life prosaic.
Stonewall verb to stop a discussion from developing by refusing to answer questions or by talking in such a way that you prevent other people from giving their opinions. [This meaning was from dictionary.cambridge.org]
Mr James, understanding that he won’t be able to defend himself, chose to stonewall the matter.
Doughty: adj. Marked by stouthearted courage; brave. [This meaning was from thefreedictionary.com]
The corporate sector is meant for doughty characters.
Idioms
De trop (formal) unnecessary, unwanted or more than is suitable. [This meaning was from thefreedictionary.com]
Presuming that the praises showered on him are de trop, Tom got embarrassed.
The in thing (to do): the fashionable thing to do. [This meaning was from thefreedictionary.com]
Consuming soft drinks is the in thing to do.
Cooler heads prevail: Fig. the ideas or influence of less emotional people prevail. (Used of a tense situation.) [This meaning was from thefreedictionary.com]
People know that cooler heads prevail, but little they do to get rid of their emotions.
Phrases
Incomparably excellent: Sachin is incomparably excellent at batting.
Inborn refinement: An orator of inborn refinement easily attracts the attention of his audience.
Insufficient appreciation: Tom was disheartened due to the insufficient appreciation his work received.
I will also furnish a few common mistakes we make, so please keep on coming to this little place.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Improving English Etc.
Improving English Etc.
Bear with me as I know that I am taking long silences. But a new feature called FeedBurner has been added to this blog using which you can subscribe to my posts.
For those who are using screen readers: I am afraid - in the process of getting subscription captcha will intimidate you. Just let me know if you face difficulty passing it and I will try to get you through the thing.
Captcha is to confirm whether the user is a human or robot. In the technical language, “robot” is referred as “bot” - meaning that it is controlled by anyone else.
A “bot” is a part of a huge number of hijacked computers that are controlled by a single person. And a group of hijacked computers is called “botnet”.
Can I tee off the English stuff? Here is the meaning of “tee off”! This phrasal verb means “to begin something” or “to make angry or disgusted.”
I have taken the meaning of the aforementioned phrasal verb from (thefreedictionary.com). I mentioned the source otherwise Google would have teed me off by banning my blog!
A very positive English proverb is: “The darkest hour is always before dawn.” This proverb says just before sunrise the sky is at its blackest - implying that when good time is in the offing the problems too are at their extreme.
“In the offing” is an idiom which means “anything likely to happen soon.”
My holidays are in the offing - so hopefully I will visit home!
How many of you are living away from home? How lovely the embrace of the family is, one learns after living away from it. I won’t add anything to it otherwise pearly tears might stream down from the beautiful eyes of anyone! I have a very nice nephew, who misses me a lot.
Why do you people always misunderstand me!
Difference between ‘elder’ and ‘older’. ‘Elder’ is used when a person refers to the members of his own family. An example: My elder brother has a nice voice.
Importantly, when ‘than’ is used with ‘elder’, the sentence will read: “My sister is ten years elder than I.” It is wrong to say “My sister is ten years elder than me.”
‘Older’ can be used with both people and things. But, when it is used with people, a person cannot refer to the members of his own family.
You can say “The boy sitting in the first row appears older to me.” But it would be wrong if you say “The boy sitting in the first row appears elder to me,” because that boy isn’t your family member.
Using ‘older’ with things is very simple: “This building is older than that one.”
I hope that I will not tee you off by talking a bit about business!
Assets: Things of possessions that can be converted into cash are called assets. Cash is also assets.
Assets are of two types: fixed assets and current assets. Fixed assets or long-term assets have a life of more than a year. Land, Building, machinery etc., are fixed assets. Additionally, there are intangible fixed assets like the goodwill or brand of a company.
Things that can be easily and quickly converted into cash are current assets. These include money at the bank, bills receivable, debts (the money which someone has to pay you back) etc.
A customer gives bills receivable to the businessman in the place of cash. Thereafter, these bills receivable are quickly converted into cash.
That was all I brought for you. If you have any suggestions for me or if you find me erring anywhere, just let me know. I will really love to read anything written by you.
Bear with me as I know that I am taking long silences. But a new feature called FeedBurner has been added to this blog using which you can subscribe to my posts.
For those who are using screen readers: I am afraid - in the process of getting subscription captcha will intimidate you. Just let me know if you face difficulty passing it and I will try to get you through the thing.
Captcha is to confirm whether the user is a human or robot. In the technical language, “robot” is referred as “bot” - meaning that it is controlled by anyone else.
A “bot” is a part of a huge number of hijacked computers that are controlled by a single person. And a group of hijacked computers is called “botnet”.
Can I tee off the English stuff? Here is the meaning of “tee off”! This phrasal verb means “to begin something” or “to make angry or disgusted.”
I have taken the meaning of the aforementioned phrasal verb from (thefreedictionary.com). I mentioned the source otherwise Google would have teed me off by banning my blog!
A very positive English proverb is: “The darkest hour is always before dawn.” This proverb says just before sunrise the sky is at its blackest - implying that when good time is in the offing the problems too are at their extreme.
“In the offing” is an idiom which means “anything likely to happen soon.”
My holidays are in the offing - so hopefully I will visit home!
How many of you are living away from home? How lovely the embrace of the family is, one learns after living away from it. I won’t add anything to it otherwise pearly tears might stream down from the beautiful eyes of anyone! I have a very nice nephew, who misses me a lot.
Why do you people always misunderstand me!
Difference between ‘elder’ and ‘older’. ‘Elder’ is used when a person refers to the members of his own family. An example: My elder brother has a nice voice.
Importantly, when ‘than’ is used with ‘elder’, the sentence will read: “My sister is ten years elder than I.” It is wrong to say “My sister is ten years elder than me.”
‘Older’ can be used with both people and things. But, when it is used with people, a person cannot refer to the members of his own family.
You can say “The boy sitting in the first row appears older to me.” But it would be wrong if you say “The boy sitting in the first row appears elder to me,” because that boy isn’t your family member.
Using ‘older’ with things is very simple: “This building is older than that one.”
I hope that I will not tee you off by talking a bit about business!
Assets: Things of possessions that can be converted into cash are called assets. Cash is also assets.
Assets are of two types: fixed assets and current assets. Fixed assets or long-term assets have a life of more than a year. Land, Building, machinery etc., are fixed assets. Additionally, there are intangible fixed assets like the goodwill or brand of a company.
Things that can be easily and quickly converted into cash are current assets. These include money at the bank, bills receivable, debts (the money which someone has to pay you back) etc.
A customer gives bills receivable to the businessman in the place of cash. Thereafter, these bills receivable are quickly converted into cash.
That was all I brought for you. If you have any suggestions for me or if you find me erring anywhere, just let me know. I will really love to read anything written by you.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Let’s Talk
Let’s Talk
I wrote here that I will furnish some financial and technical terms. These terms are used very often yet many a times people don’t understand them. But it is very important for us to have an idea of these terms, because they extensively come in use. Further, I forgot to tell you that I will keep on furnishing stuff which would help you improve your English, because I was distracted by the two idiotic but nice girls who coloured me while I was writing the post.
Girls are becoming rather frolicsome these days! My teacher told me this after reading my post. He might have thought my vocabulary is good. But I needed looking up the meaning of ‘frolicsome’ in the Cambridge dictionary!
‘Frolicsome’ is an adjective which means “enthusiastic and playful.”
Responding to his email I made a blunder. I wrote. “Thanks a lot for taking out time of reading my post despite of your intensely hectic schedule.”
We never add ‘of’ with ‘despite’. ‘Of’ is used with ‘in spite’. So the correct sentence will read:
Thanks a lot for taking out time of reading my post in spite of your intensely hectic schedule.
Sir please excuse your student!
A bad thing about me is that I rarely prepare for things. This is the secret of my failures. I enjoy reading impromptu and spontaneous pieces.
‘Impromptu’ adjective (dictionary.cambridge.org): “done or said without earlier planning or preparation.”
You will not look the meaning of ‘spontaneous’ in the dictionary website I mentioned above! Am I right? So here it is
‘Spontaneous’ adjective: “happening or done in a natural, often sudden way, without any planning or without being forced.“ Telling you another secret - this is an impromptu post!
I am giving a start to the financial glossary by telling the meaning of ‘deflation’. When the prices of goods and services go down, we call it ‘deflation’. ‘Inflation’, on the contrary, is the state when the prices of goods and services rise.
Do you know the meaning of ‘bull market’? In a ‘bull market’ prices normally rise and the confidence of investors gets a boost.
Well, now I am going to wind up this impromptu post by telling a technical word. A ‘CARDER’ is a person who steals credit card numbers or information related to them and earns a living. Idiot.
I wrote here that I will furnish some financial and technical terms. These terms are used very often yet many a times people don’t understand them. But it is very important for us to have an idea of these terms, because they extensively come in use. Further, I forgot to tell you that I will keep on furnishing stuff which would help you improve your English, because I was distracted by the two idiotic but nice girls who coloured me while I was writing the post.
Girls are becoming rather frolicsome these days! My teacher told me this after reading my post. He might have thought my vocabulary is good. But I needed looking up the meaning of ‘frolicsome’ in the Cambridge dictionary!
‘Frolicsome’ is an adjective which means “enthusiastic and playful.”
Responding to his email I made a blunder. I wrote. “Thanks a lot for taking out time of reading my post despite of your intensely hectic schedule.”
We never add ‘of’ with ‘despite’. ‘Of’ is used with ‘in spite’. So the correct sentence will read:
Thanks a lot for taking out time of reading my post in spite of your intensely hectic schedule.
Sir please excuse your student!
A bad thing about me is that I rarely prepare for things. This is the secret of my failures. I enjoy reading impromptu and spontaneous pieces.
‘Impromptu’ adjective (dictionary.cambridge.org): “done or said without earlier planning or preparation.”
You will not look the meaning of ‘spontaneous’ in the dictionary website I mentioned above! Am I right? So here it is
‘Spontaneous’ adjective: “happening or done in a natural, often sudden way, without any planning or without being forced.“ Telling you another secret - this is an impromptu post!
I am giving a start to the financial glossary by telling the meaning of ‘deflation’. When the prices of goods and services go down, we call it ‘deflation’. ‘Inflation’, on the contrary, is the state when the prices of goods and services rise.
Do you know the meaning of ‘bull market’? In a ‘bull market’ prices normally rise and the confidence of investors gets a boost.
Well, now I am going to wind up this impromptu post by telling a technical word. A ‘CARDER’ is a person who steals credit card numbers or information related to them and earns a living. Idiot.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Irrational protests (The Hindu)
Irrational protests
Ms Nasreen has clarified that she did not write the article, of which a ‘translation' was carried in the Kannada daily. Immediate action should be taken against the newspaper for publishing an article that was both provocative and unauthentic. Freedom of expression, undoubtedly, is a crucial aspect of journalism. But credibility is equally crucial. Regrettably, the Kannada daily ignored all principles of journalism.
It is perhaps the first instance when Ms Nasreen has not intentionally come to the limelight. The newspaper seems to have used her name.
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com/2010/03/04/stories/2010030453930801.htm
Ms Nasreen has clarified that she did not write the article, of which a ‘translation' was carried in the Kannada daily. Immediate action should be taken against the newspaper for publishing an article that was both provocative and unauthentic. Freedom of expression, undoubtedly, is a crucial aspect of journalism. But credibility is equally crucial. Regrettably, the Kannada daily ignored all principles of journalism.
It is perhaps the first instance when Ms Nasreen has not intentionally come to the limelight. The newspaper seems to have used her name.
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com/2010/03/04/stories/2010030453930801.htm
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Back to Writing
Back to Writing
It is very sweet and thrilling for me as I am back to begin writing on this blog. I am aware that you people would have got annoyed with me because there was a long silence on my part.
Nevertheless, I must tell you that the reasons behind this silence were genuine. But dear readers, don’t think that I am going to bore you by telling those reasons! So before we get on, please accept the heartfelt apologies of this small blogger for taking such a long break.
Sometimes it happens with me that all of a sudden a topic pops up in my mind and I start talking on it. To my curiosity, for the moment I am in a mood to talk about the weather.
Kindly note that ‘weather’ is (W-E-A-T-H-E-R) which relates to meteorology (the science of atmosphere). People who use screen readers tend to mix this ‘weather’ with (W-H-E-T-H-E-R) which is used with ‘or’ when there are two options.
I clarified this presuming that people like me would get confused whether I am talking about ‘weather’ or ‘whether’!
I enjoy all the seasons (often even the hated Indian summers). Mind you, in the West if you say ‘Indian summers’, it will mean "a time of warm weather which happens in early autumn." And they thoroughly enjoy it!
This idiom also refers to a successful or pleasant time of someone’s life, especially when one is very old. So we can say “Our octogenarian grandmamma is in her Indian summers because kids love and fondle her a lot.” By the way, ‘octogenarian’ refers to people who are in their eighties. Caught?
To my joy, this part of the year is my favourite because spring is on and there is a joy of change in the air. In winters I kept on craving for romance but pitiably there was no one to talk with. Anyway, I have kept my fingers crossed that in the near future I will get that special someone who will make a lovely company. A lovely green parrot. Aren’t parrots romantic?
I am not kidding you!
New plan
To carry out our day-to-day tasks it is necessary to have a general understanding of business terms. So I will post them here.
Methinks technical glossary too is something we should be updated with because many a times it happens that a word or phrase crops up here and there and we are left on guesses and ideas to find its meaning. So of course there will be some stuff on the web which would be very beneficial for you. And those who are planning to carve a niche on the World Wide Web would definitely find it amazing. ‘Carving a niche’ means making a position.
Two idiotic girls just intruded here and coloured me. Now I have to go asking how to clean this colour. Several folks are threatening me outside...getting a joyful fear! It is Holi! Happy Holi to you all!!!
It is very sweet and thrilling for me as I am back to begin writing on this blog. I am aware that you people would have got annoyed with me because there was a long silence on my part.
Nevertheless, I must tell you that the reasons behind this silence were genuine. But dear readers, don’t think that I am going to bore you by telling those reasons! So before we get on, please accept the heartfelt apologies of this small blogger for taking such a long break.
Sometimes it happens with me that all of a sudden a topic pops up in my mind and I start talking on it. To my curiosity, for the moment I am in a mood to talk about the weather.
Kindly note that ‘weather’ is (W-E-A-T-H-E-R) which relates to meteorology (the science of atmosphere). People who use screen readers tend to mix this ‘weather’ with (W-H-E-T-H-E-R) which is used with ‘or’ when there are two options.
I clarified this presuming that people like me would get confused whether I am talking about ‘weather’ or ‘whether’!
I enjoy all the seasons (often even the hated Indian summers). Mind you, in the West if you say ‘Indian summers’, it will mean "a time of warm weather which happens in early autumn." And they thoroughly enjoy it!
This idiom also refers to a successful or pleasant time of someone’s life, especially when one is very old. So we can say “Our octogenarian grandmamma is in her Indian summers because kids love and fondle her a lot.” By the way, ‘octogenarian’ refers to people who are in their eighties. Caught?
To my joy, this part of the year is my favourite because spring is on and there is a joy of change in the air. In winters I kept on craving for romance but pitiably there was no one to talk with. Anyway, I have kept my fingers crossed that in the near future I will get that special someone who will make a lovely company. A lovely green parrot. Aren’t parrots romantic?
I am not kidding you!
New plan
To carry out our day-to-day tasks it is necessary to have a general understanding of business terms. So I will post them here.
Methinks technical glossary too is something we should be updated with because many a times it happens that a word or phrase crops up here and there and we are left on guesses and ideas to find its meaning. So of course there will be some stuff on the web which would be very beneficial for you. And those who are planning to carve a niche on the World Wide Web would definitely find it amazing. ‘Carving a niche’ means making a position.
Two idiotic girls just intruded here and coloured me. Now I have to go asking how to clean this colour. Several folks are threatening me outside...getting a joyful fear! It is Holi! Happy Holi to you all!!!
Friday, July 3, 2009
Memorials & statues (The Hindu)
Memorials & statues
This refers to the editorial “Symbols over substance?” (July 3) on the Supreme Court’s notice to the Mayawati government in Uttar Pradesh for its spending on memorials and statues. Ms Mayawati has put up many memorials and statues for Dalit leaders and work on many more is on. But who stands to gain from them?
For most Dalit children, proper education is a farfetched dream even today. There are a host of memorials and statues in Uttar Pradesh but the living condition of Dalits is pitiable.
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com:80/2009/07/04/stories/2009070455871001.htm
This refers to the editorial “Symbols over substance?” (July 3) on the Supreme Court’s notice to the Mayawati government in Uttar Pradesh for its spending on memorials and statues. Ms Mayawati has put up many memorials and statues for Dalit leaders and work on many more is on. But who stands to gain from them?
For most Dalit children, proper education is a farfetched dream even today. There are a host of memorials and statues in Uttar Pradesh but the living condition of Dalits is pitiable.
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com:80/2009/07/04/stories/2009070455871001.htm
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Informative Chat of Pinky and Bobby
Informative Chat of Pinky and Bobby
Oh so lovely!
Thank you very much Pinky for praising my face.
Pah! I was thinking about New Zealand which has been named the most peaceful country in the annual Global Peace Index. You have a face like a wet weekend!
Are you looking into the mirror?
Are you blind or what? I am reading this magazine. See, cannot you see it?
Ya I can see! But you said I have a face like a wet weekend (which means to look very unhappy). And since you always look like that so I thought that you are looking into the mirror!
Shut up. I am planning a trip to New Zealand.
Oh No no no! Let the Kiwis live peacefully in their island country. Jericho would be the best place for you.
Hey you are sending me to the lowest point on earth which is not covered with water and where war between the Zionist regime and the Palestinians can spark off at any moment!
Ya I know that, that’s why I am sending you there. The atmosphere of war will suit your nature!
Right. I can become a private source to Irene Khan, the General Secretary of the Amnesty International, and shall keep her updated about the human rights violation! And it would be because of my unprejudiced intelligence!
And Pinky one pleasant morning I will read in the newspaper that you are shot dead! “Unprejudiced intelligence”, good phrase by the way! Cheated me, no doubt.
You are a perfect idiot. I would no longer sit with you. I am going!
Oh so lovely!
Thank you very much Pinky for praising my face.
Pah! I was thinking about New Zealand which has been named the most peaceful country in the annual Global Peace Index. You have a face like a wet weekend!
Are you looking into the mirror?
Are you blind or what? I am reading this magazine. See, cannot you see it?
Ya I can see! But you said I have a face like a wet weekend (which means to look very unhappy). And since you always look like that so I thought that you are looking into the mirror!
Shut up. I am planning a trip to New Zealand.
Oh No no no! Let the Kiwis live peacefully in their island country. Jericho would be the best place for you.
Hey you are sending me to the lowest point on earth which is not covered with water and where war between the Zionist regime and the Palestinians can spark off at any moment!
Ya I know that, that’s why I am sending you there. The atmosphere of war will suit your nature!
Right. I can become a private source to Irene Khan, the General Secretary of the Amnesty International, and shall keep her updated about the human rights violation! And it would be because of my unprejudiced intelligence!
And Pinky one pleasant morning I will read in the newspaper that you are shot dead! “Unprejudiced intelligence”, good phrase by the way! Cheated me, no doubt.
You are a perfect idiot. I would no longer sit with you. I am going!
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Informative Chat of Pinky and Bobby
Informative Chat of Pinky and Bobby
Good morning Pinky!
Good morning, Bobby!
It is since long you are exercising. Do not you get bored?
No it is good! Regular exercise increases endorphins, the hormones which decrease the pain and stress.
But do not you get tired?
Yes I do get tired but it is called eustress which is a positive form of stress!
Hell with your health! I love sipping warm coffee with the newspaper every morning. And the news is that Mr Madhav Kumar Nepal is the new Prime Minister of Nepal!
Well just see how many new governments are forming? See, Mr Manmohan Singh became the prime minister of India. A little before that, Mr Jacob Zuma became the president of South Africa. And now you are telling about Mr Madhav Kumar Nepal. It would be easy to remember his name because it is the namesake of his country!
How childish is your mind! Become like me, I never forget anything. I am smart!
Really? Then let me ask you something.
Alright!
You say that you read the newspaper every morning. Then do you remember the name of the royal palace of Nepal, that had been a symbol of the country’s monarchy, and has recently been turned to a museum?
Ya ya ya! It is Narayanhiti Royal palace! Now restart your exercise and do not tick me off.
Well I am over with it. I am dying to know the meaning of tick off! Tell me!
It means to annoy or make angry.
I was not ticking you off. But you said it because you are a curmudgeon. Before you could beg me to tell the meaning of curmudgeon, I will tell you its meaning. It is a noun and means an ill-tempered person full of resentment and stubborn ideas.
I knew the meaning! And you damn fool shut up.
You you just get out!
Good morning Pinky!
Good morning, Bobby!
It is since long you are exercising. Do not you get bored?
No it is good! Regular exercise increases endorphins, the hormones which decrease the pain and stress.
But do not you get tired?
Yes I do get tired but it is called eustress which is a positive form of stress!
Hell with your health! I love sipping warm coffee with the newspaper every morning. And the news is that Mr Madhav Kumar Nepal is the new Prime Minister of Nepal!
Well just see how many new governments are forming? See, Mr Manmohan Singh became the prime minister of India. A little before that, Mr Jacob Zuma became the president of South Africa. And now you are telling about Mr Madhav Kumar Nepal. It would be easy to remember his name because it is the namesake of his country!
How childish is your mind! Become like me, I never forget anything. I am smart!
Really? Then let me ask you something.
Alright!
You say that you read the newspaper every morning. Then do you remember the name of the royal palace of Nepal, that had been a symbol of the country’s monarchy, and has recently been turned to a museum?
Ya ya ya! It is Narayanhiti Royal palace! Now restart your exercise and do not tick me off.
Well I am over with it. I am dying to know the meaning of tick off! Tell me!
It means to annoy or make angry.
I was not ticking you off. But you said it because you are a curmudgeon. Before you could beg me to tell the meaning of curmudgeon, I will tell you its meaning. It is a noun and means an ill-tempered person full of resentment and stubborn ideas.
I knew the meaning! And you damn fool shut up.
You you just get out!
Saturday, May 30, 2009
English Class
English Class
Simplicity is the essence of writing. But, because of our craze of using high-sounding words and making needlessly new sentences, many of us become habitual of artificial writing.
I think that this happens when we try to show that our writing style is special. And the moment we do it, we move away from simplicity and turn to artificiality, which is regarded to be a cardinal sin in writing.
Therefore we must never try to show that our writing style is different or special.
Words of the day
Shambolic: adj. Chaotic or disorderly. Throwing our city in a shambolic state, the cyclone turned towards the nearby villages to cause destruction.
Moniker: n. A nickname or personal name. The moniker of Nelson Mandela is Madiba. Often monikers sound very funny!
Inure also enure: v. To become habitual to anything undesirable, especially by prolonged subjection. For Tom, earlier bearing loneliness was difficult, but now he has got inured to it.
Idioms of the day
Like flies to manure: Eagerly assembling in a large number. (Always used to denote something negative). Those folks were running after that arrogant billionaire like flies to manure.
Through thick and thin: Through good and bad times. It would be lovelier if I gained a person who can remain with me through thick and thin.
Send someone on a wild-goose chase: To send someone on a useless or pointless search. As informed the police rushed to the spot to arrest the terrorists but it turned out to be a wild-goose chase.
Combinations of words
A storm of public indignation: Communal cards triggered a storm of public indignation tugging several regional parties off the fray.
A potentially momentous shift: In a potentially momentous shift, the BSP chief promised to keep the criminals in check but she did not.
Patient and gentle: That girl is so patient and gentle that she bears all the pointless abuses of her sister.
The class is over.
Simplicity is the essence of writing. But, because of our craze of using high-sounding words and making needlessly new sentences, many of us become habitual of artificial writing.
I think that this happens when we try to show that our writing style is special. And the moment we do it, we move away from simplicity and turn to artificiality, which is regarded to be a cardinal sin in writing.
Therefore we must never try to show that our writing style is different or special.
Words of the day
Shambolic: adj. Chaotic or disorderly. Throwing our city in a shambolic state, the cyclone turned towards the nearby villages to cause destruction.
Moniker: n. A nickname or personal name. The moniker of Nelson Mandela is Madiba. Often monikers sound very funny!
Inure also enure: v. To become habitual to anything undesirable, especially by prolonged subjection. For Tom, earlier bearing loneliness was difficult, but now he has got inured to it.
Idioms of the day
Like flies to manure: Eagerly assembling in a large number. (Always used to denote something negative). Those folks were running after that arrogant billionaire like flies to manure.
Through thick and thin: Through good and bad times. It would be lovelier if I gained a person who can remain with me through thick and thin.
Send someone on a wild-goose chase: To send someone on a useless or pointless search. As informed the police rushed to the spot to arrest the terrorists but it turned out to be a wild-goose chase.
Combinations of words
A storm of public indignation: Communal cards triggered a storm of public indignation tugging several regional parties off the fray.
A potentially momentous shift: In a potentially momentous shift, the BSP chief promised to keep the criminals in check but she did not.
Patient and gentle: That girl is so patient and gentle that she bears all the pointless abuses of her sister.
The class is over.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Punjab violence (The Hindu)
Punjab violence
The violence in Punjab following an attack on the chief of the Dera Sach Khand and the killing of Sant Rama Nand in Vienna shows the low level of tolerance among the people. I feel sorry for those who were stranded in airports and railway stations due to the violence although they were not even remotely connected with the Vienna incident.
The top Sikh leaders should condemn the violence and instruct their followers to desist forthwith.
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com/2009/05/29/stories/2009052954810802.htm
The violence in Punjab following an attack on the chief of the Dera Sach Khand and the killing of Sant Rama Nand in Vienna shows the low level of tolerance among the people. I feel sorry for those who were stranded in airports and railway stations due to the violence although they were not even remotely connected with the Vienna incident.
The top Sikh leaders should condemn the violence and instruct their followers to desist forthwith.
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com/2009/05/29/stories/2009052954810802.htm
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Informative Chat of Pinky and Bobby
Informative Chat of Pinky and Bobby
Shit...
Pinky, is today’s newspaper that bad?
Hmm, I am reading a report about suicide. Idiots have not thought that it might be a cause for werther effect otherwise they would have taken care to trim it up.
Better, I must keep a dictionary while talking to you.
Oh you do not know what werther effect is?
Do not try to show that you have more knowledge than I have ok!
Alright Bobby, let us not argue. When reports of suicide trigger more suicides, it is called werther effect.
Good. You are becoming an excogitator!
Excogitator? Hey what’s that! I reckon you are abusing me, monkey!
No stupid...am actually praising you falsely... excogitator means a thinker who considers carefully and thoroughly...
Oh yes, you are rat. Am an excogitator just like Carol Ann Duffy!
Mind you, you dead lizard, it is “right” and not “rat”! You say you are like Carol Ann Duffy the lady who has become the first female poet laureate?
You are right for the first time!
Pinky, you sickly tick, I only wanted to brag about my vocabulary. That’s I called you excogitator. Demolish your delusions of grandeur!
I know that you again are bragging by saying delusions of grandeur. Do you really know the meaning of this idiom? I know.
Yup Pinky. I know its meaning very well.
But if you know then tell, come on, tell!
Well, I mean... a – a – I do not have time...get lost...
You do not know the meaning! And you damn fool shut up. Delusion of grandeur is used when a person thinks that he is much more important or powerful than he really is.
Mind your language! It is because of this that I do not like you coming to meet me. But as the saying goes: a bad penny always turns up.
Pinky, an extremely intelligent, highly educated and decently handsome gentleman like me would only say that this saying is out of context.
Hey, are you crazy! I have never heard anyone doing so much self-glorification! By the way, may I know how this saying is out of context?
Well, this saying is used for nasty or bad people who have a habit of showing up or returning. But I have already told you just now that how good I am! So this is totally out of context!
Would you do me a favour, Bobby?
Yes, of course. That’s my habit.
Shut up and get out!
Shit...
Pinky, is today’s newspaper that bad?
Hmm, I am reading a report about suicide. Idiots have not thought that it might be a cause for werther effect otherwise they would have taken care to trim it up.
Better, I must keep a dictionary while talking to you.
Oh you do not know what werther effect is?
Do not try to show that you have more knowledge than I have ok!
Alright Bobby, let us not argue. When reports of suicide trigger more suicides, it is called werther effect.
Good. You are becoming an excogitator!
Excogitator? Hey what’s that! I reckon you are abusing me, monkey!
No stupid...am actually praising you falsely... excogitator means a thinker who considers carefully and thoroughly...
Oh yes, you are rat. Am an excogitator just like Carol Ann Duffy!
Mind you, you dead lizard, it is “right” and not “rat”! You say you are like Carol Ann Duffy the lady who has become the first female poet laureate?
You are right for the first time!
Pinky, you sickly tick, I only wanted to brag about my vocabulary. That’s I called you excogitator. Demolish your delusions of grandeur!
I know that you again are bragging by saying delusions of grandeur. Do you really know the meaning of this idiom? I know.
Yup Pinky. I know its meaning very well.
But if you know then tell, come on, tell!
Well, I mean... a – a – I do not have time...get lost...
You do not know the meaning! And you damn fool shut up. Delusion of grandeur is used when a person thinks that he is much more important or powerful than he really is.
Mind your language! It is because of this that I do not like you coming to meet me. But as the saying goes: a bad penny always turns up.
Pinky, an extremely intelligent, highly educated and decently handsome gentleman like me would only say that this saying is out of context.
Hey, are you crazy! I have never heard anyone doing so much self-glorification! By the way, may I know how this saying is out of context?
Well, this saying is used for nasty or bad people who have a habit of showing up or returning. But I have already told you just now that how good I am! So this is totally out of context!
Would you do me a favour, Bobby?
Yes, of course. That’s my habit.
Shut up and get out!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
English Class
English Class
I feel that the flow and beauty of your writing depends on your knowledge and intelligence. Giving importance to high-sounding words and intentionally choosing to write long, complex sentences is at best an idiocy. It must ever be kept in mind that simplicity and deep knowledge are at the core of a clear and crisp communication.
Words of the day
Unflappable: adj. Always calm, whether undergoing difficulties or experiencing success. Ms Sonia Gandhi, unlike most of the politicians, appears unflappable.
Minutiae Pl minutiae: n. A tiny or trivial detail. Come on Cris just cram up the answer there is no use going in the minutiae! In order to come on the correct conclusion it is important to examine each and every minutiae of the matter.
Upholster: v. To supply (furniture) with springs, stuffing, cushions and covering fabric. Rather than upholstering the room with expensive, showy material, it is better to furnish it with simple and fine furniture.
Idioms of the day
Chocolate box: A chocolate box place or thing is very attractive in a way that does not look real (always before noun). Call it their chocolate box charm, but unquestionably a considerable credit goes to Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi for the victory of Congress.
Thick and fast: In large numbers or amounts and rapidly. Mr Advani will avoid the media because journalists will pose embarrassing questions thick and fast.
One’s goose is cooked: One has been found out and is in trouble; one is finished. After unleashing terror for several years, Velupillai Prabhakaran’s goose is cooked.
Combinations of words
Prevailing misconception: In the ancient times a prevailing misconception was that the earth is stationary.
Pointless and ineffective: The complete debate turned pointless and ineffective because the two competitors skirted from the topic.
Transient emotions (transient = for a brief time): Transient emotions can never trigger a robust revolution.
The class is over!
I feel that the flow and beauty of your writing depends on your knowledge and intelligence. Giving importance to high-sounding words and intentionally choosing to write long, complex sentences is at best an idiocy. It must ever be kept in mind that simplicity and deep knowledge are at the core of a clear and crisp communication.
Words of the day
Unflappable: adj. Always calm, whether undergoing difficulties or experiencing success. Ms Sonia Gandhi, unlike most of the politicians, appears unflappable.
Minutiae Pl minutiae: n. A tiny or trivial detail. Come on Cris just cram up the answer there is no use going in the minutiae! In order to come on the correct conclusion it is important to examine each and every minutiae of the matter.
Upholster: v. To supply (furniture) with springs, stuffing, cushions and covering fabric. Rather than upholstering the room with expensive, showy material, it is better to furnish it with simple and fine furniture.
Idioms of the day
Chocolate box: A chocolate box place or thing is very attractive in a way that does not look real (always before noun). Call it their chocolate box charm, but unquestionably a considerable credit goes to Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi for the victory of Congress.
Thick and fast: In large numbers or amounts and rapidly. Mr Advani will avoid the media because journalists will pose embarrassing questions thick and fast.
One’s goose is cooked: One has been found out and is in trouble; one is finished. After unleashing terror for several years, Velupillai Prabhakaran’s goose is cooked.
Combinations of words
Prevailing misconception: In the ancient times a prevailing misconception was that the earth is stationary.
Pointless and ineffective: The complete debate turned pointless and ineffective because the two competitors skirted from the topic.
Transient emotions (transient = for a brief time): Transient emotions can never trigger a robust revolution.
The class is over!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Voter turnout (The Hindu)
Voter turnout
A lot of people have condemned the low voter turnout in the election. But I fail to understand how a huge turnout will improve matters. What is the point in voting in large numbers for the same breed of politicians who are responsible for the existing state of affairs?
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com/2009/05/13/stories/2009051353461003.htm
A lot of people have condemned the low voter turnout in the election. But I fail to understand how a huge turnout will improve matters. What is the point in voting in large numbers for the same breed of politicians who are responsible for the existing state of affairs?
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com/2009/05/13/stories/2009051353461003.htm
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Voter turnout (The Hindu)
Voter turnout
As a young Indian, I was excited about the election but I did not go to the polling booth, first because I am visually impaired and I have heard from my peers that there is no privacy for people like us. Braille EVMs exist only in name. Secondly, a host of families from my neighbourhood came back frustrated as their names were missing from the voter lists.
Is the Election Commission aware that names go missing from the voter lists; houses are wiped off the map; people who are alive are declared dead; and the religion and even the gender of many people have been changed?
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com:80/2009/05/05/stories/2009050555310803.htm
As a young Indian, I was excited about the election but I did not go to the polling booth, first because I am visually impaired and I have heard from my peers that there is no privacy for people like us. Braille EVMs exist only in name. Secondly, a host of families from my neighbourhood came back frustrated as their names were missing from the voter lists.
Is the Election Commission aware that names go missing from the voter lists; houses are wiped off the map; people who are alive are declared dead; and the religion and even the gender of many people have been changed?
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com:80/2009/05/05/stories/2009050555310803.htm
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Informative Chat of Pinky and Bobby
Informative Chat of Pinky and Bobby
Hey Pinky what are you reading?
I am reading about trypanophobia.
What is it?
Ugh. Again you have started boring me.
Tell me Pinky tell me!
Mind you, this is the first and last thing I will explain. Trypanophobia is the extreme and groundless fear of injections. It is also called needle phobia. Now bugger off, Bobby!
Shucks, what are you saying!
Are you suffering from trypanophobia, honey?
No no! I again am very curious for the thing you just spoke, Pinky! How smart you are! Come on please tell me the meaning of bugger off and I promise I will go.
Well, this expression is chiefly British and it means go away. Now make the best use of your legs and bugger off!
I am buggering off. Michaelle Jean’s interview was making a curious reading. It was boring to be with you idiot!
Do not bluff Bobby ok! Whose interview? Come tell me.
No no. Am going catching on with the interview!
You Bobby! I keep on telling you so many things. Tell me whose interview is it tell me.
It is Michaelle Jean’s interview, and she is the first Black governor general of Canada.
Pah! I knew it from before. Bugger off!
Pinky, do not try to be over smart. Lie is really writ large in your face.
I know the meaning of writ large, so do not feel that you are very special! This idiom is formal and it means something very obvious. Bugger off!
Hasta la vista!
Wait there, wait Bobby! I can understand that this is Spanish but what is the meaning of it please tell me!
See you later!
Tell me the meaning just now!
Good bye, Pinky!
How cruel you are!
I am telling you the meaning even then I am cruel?
Oh does ‘Hasta la vista’ mean ‘see you later’ and ‘good bye’?
Yup, idiot.
Since you have told me a Spanish expression, I will tell you a Latin phrase. It is “de minimis non curat lex (the law does not concern itself with trifling things)”. I remain on the top!
Hey Pinky what are you reading?
I am reading about trypanophobia.
What is it?
Ugh. Again you have started boring me.
Tell me Pinky tell me!
Mind you, this is the first and last thing I will explain. Trypanophobia is the extreme and groundless fear of injections. It is also called needle phobia. Now bugger off, Bobby!
Shucks, what are you saying!
Are you suffering from trypanophobia, honey?
No no! I again am very curious for the thing you just spoke, Pinky! How smart you are! Come on please tell me the meaning of bugger off and I promise I will go.
Well, this expression is chiefly British and it means go away. Now make the best use of your legs and bugger off!
I am buggering off. Michaelle Jean’s interview was making a curious reading. It was boring to be with you idiot!
Do not bluff Bobby ok! Whose interview? Come tell me.
No no. Am going catching on with the interview!
You Bobby! I keep on telling you so many things. Tell me whose interview is it tell me.
It is Michaelle Jean’s interview, and she is the first Black governor general of Canada.
Pah! I knew it from before. Bugger off!
Pinky, do not try to be over smart. Lie is really writ large in your face.
I know the meaning of writ large, so do not feel that you are very special! This idiom is formal and it means something very obvious. Bugger off!
Hasta la vista!
Wait there, wait Bobby! I can understand that this is Spanish but what is the meaning of it please tell me!
See you later!
Tell me the meaning just now!
Good bye, Pinky!
How cruel you are!
I am telling you the meaning even then I am cruel?
Oh does ‘Hasta la vista’ mean ‘see you later’ and ‘good bye’?
Yup, idiot.
Since you have told me a Spanish expression, I will tell you a Latin phrase. It is “de minimis non curat lex (the law does not concern itself with trifling things)”. I remain on the top!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Dealing with ragging (The Hindu)
Dealing with ragging
The Supreme Court’s act of issuing a show-cause to the principal and the registrar of Dr. Rajendra Prasad Medical College, Himachal Pradesh, and asking
them why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them for the death of Aman Kachroo, allegedly due to ragging, is welcome.
From media reports, it is obvious that the college administration did not take Aman’s complaints seriously. We, the people, repose our faith in the judiciary
and hope it will take stringent action against the guilty.
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com/2009/03/18/stories/2009031855760802.htm
The Supreme Court’s act of issuing a show-cause to the principal and the registrar of Dr. Rajendra Prasad Medical College, Himachal Pradesh, and asking
them why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them for the death of Aman Kachroo, allegedly due to ragging, is welcome.
From media reports, it is obvious that the college administration did not take Aman’s complaints seriously. We, the people, repose our faith in the judiciary
and hope it will take stringent action against the guilty.
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com/2009/03/18/stories/2009031855760802.htm
Thursday, March 12, 2009
English Class
English Class
The following are the views of my blind friend about writing:
When I write my cheerfulness increases. The more I write, the more I crave to! It makes everything very lovely. It gives me an extremely beautiful view - and I feel like going on writing - regardless of what I am saying or expressing. I love it very much!
Words of the day
Traduce: v. Causing disgrace or humiliation to by making wrong and malicious statements. As a rule, truth soon comes to light, so we should not bother if anyone traduces us.
Recriminate: v. To blame or accuse in return. Instead of lifting up the economic blockade from Gaza, Israel is busy in recriminating Palestinians.
Snigger: n/v. A quiet and insulting laugh kept to oneself. Fearing that my snigger will change into laughter, I disconnected the phone. I later realised that Mr Young was sniggering throughout my rehearsal.
Idioms of the day
If ifs and ands were pots and pans, there'd be no work for tinkers' hands: It is useless to wish for things. Often said in replying to the sentences beginning with “If only”. John: If only I wouldn’t have dropped that catch, we would have won the match. George: If ifs and ands were pots and pans, there'd be no work for tinkers' hands!
Rule with a velvet glove: To rule in a very gentle manner. My sir rules with a velvet glove, yet nobody misbehaves in the class.
Kid’s stuff: A very easy task. Cheer up chaps for winning this game is a kid’s stuff.
Combinations of words
Unrestrained anger: In a fit of unrestrained anger he smashed the computer screen.
Wavering courage: This planet is unfriendly to the people of wavering courage.
Shy and subdued: That idiot girl, shy and subdued, is a character which is rarer than the rarest.
The class is over.
Correction
Anonymous says in the comment box:
In a sentence like this, "Was/Were" or "Had", and not "Would", is used in the first clause beginning with "If". So the grammatically correct sentence, if you don't mind, would be:
"If only I hadn't dropped that catch, we would have won the match.
You can justify your usage above in terms of casual or popular use, but not in terms of grammar, come on!
The following are the views of my blind friend about writing:
When I write my cheerfulness increases. The more I write, the more I crave to! It makes everything very lovely. It gives me an extremely beautiful view - and I feel like going on writing - regardless of what I am saying or expressing. I love it very much!
Words of the day
Traduce: v. Causing disgrace or humiliation to by making wrong and malicious statements. As a rule, truth soon comes to light, so we should not bother if anyone traduces us.
Recriminate: v. To blame or accuse in return. Instead of lifting up the economic blockade from Gaza, Israel is busy in recriminating Palestinians.
Snigger: n/v. A quiet and insulting laugh kept to oneself. Fearing that my snigger will change into laughter, I disconnected the phone. I later realised that Mr Young was sniggering throughout my rehearsal.
Idioms of the day
If ifs and ands were pots and pans, there'd be no work for tinkers' hands: It is useless to wish for things. Often said in replying to the sentences beginning with “If only”. John: If only I wouldn’t have dropped that catch, we would have won the match. George: If ifs and ands were pots and pans, there'd be no work for tinkers' hands!
Rule with a velvet glove: To rule in a very gentle manner. My sir rules with a velvet glove, yet nobody misbehaves in the class.
Kid’s stuff: A very easy task. Cheer up chaps for winning this game is a kid’s stuff.
Combinations of words
Unrestrained anger: In a fit of unrestrained anger he smashed the computer screen.
Wavering courage: This planet is unfriendly to the people of wavering courage.
Shy and subdued: That idiot girl, shy and subdued, is a character which is rarer than the rarest.
The class is over.
Correction
Anonymous says in the comment box:
In a sentence like this, "Was/Were" or "Had", and not "Would", is used in the first clause beginning with "If". So the grammatically correct sentence, if you don't mind, would be:
"If only I hadn't dropped that catch, we would have won the match.
You can justify your usage above in terms of casual or popular use, but not in terms of grammar, come on!
Saturday, March 7, 2009
English Class
English Class
I started to give assignments or homework to the readers of this blog. I did receive some assignments, but I am afraid, for many of you it was too cumbersome. Therefore, I will ask you all to send your compositions - let them be whatever. I will try to edit or tell how are they.
Words of the day
Deleterious: adj. Having an injurious effect - harmful. Mr Ramadoss, our health minister, has banned smoking in public places because it is deleterious for health.
Proximity: n. The quality, state, sense, or fact of being next or near - closeness. People who are opining that the Supreme Court, due to its proximity with the lawyers, will resort to bias in the Madras incident are wrong.
Peacenik: N. A political activist who opposes war and promoting of weapons - a peace lover. Gandhiji was an outshining peacenik.
Idioms of the day
Be in the pudding club: To be pregnant. John is overjoyed as his wife is in the pudding club.
Get/put a quart into a pint pot (this is British): To try to put a lot of things into a little space. By jabbing all this stuff into this drawer you are actually trying to put a quart into a pint pot.
Shout/proclaim from the housetops: To make anything known publically. Often functions of eminent personalities aren’t proclaimed from the housetops.
Combinations of words
Gladdening influence: Children, lovely as they are, leave a gladdening influence on their parents.
Cheerful expectations: The secret of happiness and success lies in cheerful expectations.
Gleeful spirit: George is impatiently waiting for a life partner of a gleeful spirit!
The class is over.
I started to give assignments or homework to the readers of this blog. I did receive some assignments, but I am afraid, for many of you it was too cumbersome. Therefore, I will ask you all to send your compositions - let them be whatever. I will try to edit or tell how are they.
Words of the day
Deleterious: adj. Having an injurious effect - harmful. Mr Ramadoss, our health minister, has banned smoking in public places because it is deleterious for health.
Proximity: n. The quality, state, sense, or fact of being next or near - closeness. People who are opining that the Supreme Court, due to its proximity with the lawyers, will resort to bias in the Madras incident are wrong.
Peacenik: N. A political activist who opposes war and promoting of weapons - a peace lover. Gandhiji was an outshining peacenik.
Idioms of the day
Be in the pudding club: To be pregnant. John is overjoyed as his wife is in the pudding club.
Get/put a quart into a pint pot (this is British): To try to put a lot of things into a little space. By jabbing all this stuff into this drawer you are actually trying to put a quart into a pint pot.
Shout/proclaim from the housetops: To make anything known publically. Often functions of eminent personalities aren’t proclaimed from the housetops.
Combinations of words
Gladdening influence: Children, lovely as they are, leave a gladdening influence on their parents.
Cheerful expectations: The secret of happiness and success lies in cheerful expectations.
Gleeful spirit: George is impatiently waiting for a life partner of a gleeful spirit!
The class is over.
Monday, February 23, 2009
English Class
English Class
What are you doing? Whatever it is - grab a pen or run your fingers on the keyboard and start writing anything - I am sure you will enjoy and live this moment!
Words of the day
Beeline v. To move quickly in a direct, straight course. All the young, cheerful cyclists were beelining to win the race.
Jeepers interj. Used to express annoyance or surprise. (Alteration of Jesus.) Jeepers! Were you supposed to come so late to this home? Sarah and John, this is your 7th child, Jeepers!
Decapitate v. To cut off the head from the body, behead. Decapitating was prevalent in the olden days.
Idioms of the day
Be a dead cert (this is British, Australian and informal): To be certain to happen or achieve something. John was a dead cert to win the match.
The proof of the pudding is in the eating: Something that you say which means that you cannot judge the value of a thing until you have tested it. Both the car models appeared excellent but the proof of the pudding is in the eating.
A magic wand: An easy way to solve a difficulty. There is no magic wand that could solve your problem.
Combinations of words
Adventurous mind: Tom has an adventurous mind, he remains eager to invite danger.
A curious and inexplicable uneasiness: Before getting the results of my exams, I was in a curious and inexplicable uneasiness.
Comforting assurance: Dispelling Sarah’s fears, doctor told that her illness isn’t long-lasting, which was a comforting assurance for her.
The class is over. Pack up your bag baggage and all!
What are you doing? Whatever it is - grab a pen or run your fingers on the keyboard and start writing anything - I am sure you will enjoy and live this moment!
Words of the day
Beeline v. To move quickly in a direct, straight course. All the young, cheerful cyclists were beelining to win the race.
Jeepers interj. Used to express annoyance or surprise. (Alteration of Jesus.) Jeepers! Were you supposed to come so late to this home? Sarah and John, this is your 7th child, Jeepers!
Decapitate v. To cut off the head from the body, behead. Decapitating was prevalent in the olden days.
Idioms of the day
Be a dead cert (this is British, Australian and informal): To be certain to happen or achieve something. John was a dead cert to win the match.
The proof of the pudding is in the eating: Something that you say which means that you cannot judge the value of a thing until you have tested it. Both the car models appeared excellent but the proof of the pudding is in the eating.
A magic wand: An easy way to solve a difficulty. There is no magic wand that could solve your problem.
Combinations of words
Adventurous mind: Tom has an adventurous mind, he remains eager to invite danger.
A curious and inexplicable uneasiness: Before getting the results of my exams, I was in a curious and inexplicable uneasiness.
Comforting assurance: Dispelling Sarah’s fears, doctor told that her illness isn’t long-lasting, which was a comforting assurance for her.
The class is over. Pack up your bag baggage and all!
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Peculiarities and Sayings of English Language
Peculiarities and Sayings of English Language
Difference between ‘ex and ‘former’. Careful scholars point out that even many great scholars are caught napping while using these words. They say we can have only one ‘ex-Secretary-General’ and several ‘former Secretary-Generals’ of United Nations. This is because when we say ‘ex-Secretary-General ’, we mean the Secretary-General which was just before the present Secretary-General. For example, Mr Kofi Annan is the ex-Secretary-General, because he was just before the present Secretary-General Mr Ban Ki-moon; whereas those who were before Mr Kofi Annan such as Mr Boutros-Ghali, Mr Kurt Waldheim, Mr U Thant etc. are all former Secretary-Generals.
Difference between ‘talk to’ and ‘talk with’. ‘Talk to’ is used in common matters. For example, we can say ‘John talked to Joseph about the cricket match.’ ‘Talk with’ is used in serious matters. ‘The Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh talked with President Obama about the economic meltdown.’
Difference between ‘towards’ and ‘toward’. Both are correct. ‘Towards’ is used in British English and ‘toward’ in American English.
Difference between ‘murder’ and ‘manslaughter’. ‘Murder’ is carried out in a thoughtful manner and has a motive. For example, ‘some murder their relatives because of property.’ ‘Manslaughter’ is used when the killing may not be intentional. ‘A drunkard is charged for manslaughter as he crashed his car into the sidewalk and killed a man.’
Using ‘Irregardless’. This word, which is used in the informal American English, has stirred up a lot of controversy. The word ‘irregardless’, scholars argue, is senseless because the prefix ‘ir’ means ‘not’ and the suffix ‘less’ means ‘without’. Many dictionaries don’t include this word. Better, don’t use it.
Sayings
You cannot make an omelette without breaking eggs. This saying means that sometimes if you want to make or achieve something, you cannot do it without sacrificing or destroying another thing.
Many a true word is spoken in jest. This saying means that something said as a joke can be sensible and true.
Ignorance of the law is no excuse. This saying means that there is no point in saying that we didn’t know that the thing we did was illegal.
A word to the wise is enough. This saying means that a very short warning or explanation to the wise is enough.
The tide must be taken when it comes. This saying means that we should make the best use of all the opportunities when they come, otherwise it would be too late.
Difference between ‘ex and ‘former’. Careful scholars point out that even many great scholars are caught napping while using these words. They say we can have only one ‘ex-Secretary-General’ and several ‘former Secretary-Generals’ of United Nations. This is because when we say ‘ex-Secretary-General ’, we mean the Secretary-General which was just before the present Secretary-General. For example, Mr Kofi Annan is the ex-Secretary-General, because he was just before the present Secretary-General Mr Ban Ki-moon; whereas those who were before Mr Kofi Annan such as Mr Boutros-Ghali, Mr Kurt Waldheim, Mr U Thant etc. are all former Secretary-Generals.
Difference between ‘talk to’ and ‘talk with’. ‘Talk to’ is used in common matters. For example, we can say ‘John talked to Joseph about the cricket match.’ ‘Talk with’ is used in serious matters. ‘The Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh talked with President Obama about the economic meltdown.’
Difference between ‘towards’ and ‘toward’. Both are correct. ‘Towards’ is used in British English and ‘toward’ in American English.
Difference between ‘murder’ and ‘manslaughter’. ‘Murder’ is carried out in a thoughtful manner and has a motive. For example, ‘some murder their relatives because of property.’ ‘Manslaughter’ is used when the killing may not be intentional. ‘A drunkard is charged for manslaughter as he crashed his car into the sidewalk and killed a man.’
Using ‘Irregardless’. This word, which is used in the informal American English, has stirred up a lot of controversy. The word ‘irregardless’, scholars argue, is senseless because the prefix ‘ir’ means ‘not’ and the suffix ‘less’ means ‘without’. Many dictionaries don’t include this word. Better, don’t use it.
Sayings
You cannot make an omelette without breaking eggs. This saying means that sometimes if you want to make or achieve something, you cannot do it without sacrificing or destroying another thing.
Many a true word is spoken in jest. This saying means that something said as a joke can be sensible and true.
Ignorance of the law is no excuse. This saying means that there is no point in saying that we didn’t know that the thing we did was illegal.
A word to the wise is enough. This saying means that a very short warning or explanation to the wise is enough.
The tide must be taken when it comes. This saying means that we should make the best use of all the opportunities when they come, otherwise it would be too late.
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