This is sort of like
a part II to the post about words that aren’t actually correct. But this time,
it’s sentences…
1. For all intensive purposes
What you should be saying: For all intents and purposes. This one came about because the two
phrases sound alike when said aloud. However, there is no such thing as an
“intensive purpose.” The correct phrase means “for
all practical purposes; in every practical sense” [1]. Yes, “intents” and
“purposes” are basically synonymous in this saying, and having them both there
is unnecessary and creates confusion that likely contributes to the incorrect
phrasing. But, no matter how ridiculous you may think it is to use such a
redundant statement, you’ll sound even more ridiculous saying it incorrectly.
2. I could care less
What you should be saying: I couldn’t care less. This one is just a simple case of using
common sense. The phrase is meant to express the sentiment that one is not
concerned about something. But if you could
care less, that means that you
have to care to some extent in the first place, negating the intent (and
purpose ;P) of the phrase. On the other hand, saying you couldn’t care less implies that you don’t care whatsoever in the
first place, so it is not within your ability to care any less about the matter
at hand. Alternatively, you could always use the slang, “I give absolutely no
flucks*.” That pretty sufficiently gets the point across.
3. Me either
What you should be saying: Me neither. Though technically, that isn’t the best construction,
either (pun not intended). The best phrase to use is nor I or neither do I or neither/nor can I. But because, as a
grammarian, you sometimes have to pick your battles, I’d suggest that you use
“me neither.” Because at least that one is somewhat correct (depending on whom
you ask). In summary: When trying to agree with a negative statement, you
should use “neither” because it incorporates the negative.
Incorrect: -I can’t go today.
- Me either.
Correct: -I don’t like it.
-Me neither.
4. Hone in
What you should be saying: Home in. “Hone” means to sharpen, as in “honing your skills.” “Homing”
in on something means to aim or focus on a target. To remember this one, think of
a homing pigeon or a homing device, which aim for something specific.
5. Begs the question
What you (probably) should be saying: Raises the question. “Begging the question” has a Latin equivalent:
petitio principii, or, "postulation
of the beginning" [2,3]. In other words, it is a logical fallacy that refers
to a circular argument. In other
other words, it means to use part of the concept of an argument to prove
itself. It does not mean, despite
some people’s insistence to the contrary (Robin, this sentence goes out to
you!), that something creates or poses a question to be answered. So better
to go for the simple wording and avoid looking like a fool when someone calls
you out on it.
*By flucks, I think
you know what I mean…
References and other links for more information:
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