A blog on the idiosyncrasies of today’s fast-moving, social-media-driven language managed by public relations writer Joseph Priest. l write “e-mail” with a hyphen, detest the word “issue,” and abbreviate “microphone” as “mike.” Got a language question? Bring it on.
Recent Posts
What Does the X Mean in Xmas?
Is “Xmas” a sloppy shortcut or a legitimate abbreviation? Find out the meaning of its most important letter.
Do You Log into, Log in to, Login to, or Log to?
Starting a computing session can be trickier than you think.
Definition Detail: Gridlock
There’s a heavy traffic situation ahead.
A Point about Percentages
Test your knowledge on the correct use of percentages and percentage points.
Canceled vs. Cancelled
One of the most misspelled words of all.
Who Are Nutmeggers and Bay Staters?
Test your knowledge on what the residents of two U.S. states are called.
Pronunciation Poise: Jaguar
Beware. This is an easily mispronounced word.
Trouper or Trooper?
See if you know the difference between the two.
How to Write Today’s Mass Media Names
New digital media formats and stodgy AP style rules can create conundrums for writing media names. Here’s a guide to help.