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Odd Habits and Quirks Quiz

Test your knowledge of strange human behaviors.

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Going Greek: 7 Words from the Greek Alphabet

When English borrows from another alphabet

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2017 Word of the Year: Behind the Scenes

How we chose 'feminism'

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'Complement' vs. 'Compliment'

The distinction is clear (now).

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HRC: Media Opened Door to 'Charlatans'

'faker or fraud'

Videos

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The Serial Comma

Why don't they call it the Merriam-Webster comma?

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2016 Word of the Year: Behind the Scenes

How we chose 'surreal'

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Alright vs. All Right

Is 'alright' all right?

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Is None Singular or Plural?

Or both? Or neither?

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Drive Safe: In Praise of Flat Adverbs

You don't have to end all your adverbs in -ly to talk right.

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Grammar and Usage

Word History

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  1. charlatan 'faker or fraud'

  2. lowlife 'a person of low moral character'

  3. kakistocracy 'government by the worst people'

  4. slimeball 'a morally repulsive or odious person'

  5. salacious 'arousing or appealing to sexual desire'

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Odd Habits and Quirks Quiz

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  • Which of the following best describes an easily irritated person?
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Words at Play

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'Complement' vs. 'Compliment'

The distinction is clear (now).

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Words from Letters in the Greek Alphabet

When English borrows from another alphabet

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'Preventive' or 'Preventative'?

Why not both?

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Words We're Watching: 'Bluebeard,' the Verb

No, it's not a coiffure trend

Word Games

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Odd Habits and Quirks Quiz

Test your knowledge of strange human behaviors.

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More Confusing Words—Quiz

How many of these commonly confused words do you know?

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How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?
How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?

Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!

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SCRABBLE® Sprint
SCRABBLE® Sprint

SCRABBLE® fans, sharpen your skills!

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