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Word History

The History of 'Cynic'

How an ancient philosophical movement devoted to the pursuit of virtue came to describe eye-rolling criticism.

How an ancient philosophical movement devoted to the pursuit of virtue came to describe eye-rolling criticism.

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The History of 'Cynic'

 

How an ancient philosophical movement devoted to the pursuit of virtue came to describe eye-rolling criticism.

play video ie vs eg
i.e. vs. e.g.

 

Often used, often confused. Here's some guidance and insight.

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'All over sudden' vs. 'All of a sudden'

 

Figuring it out at once

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Its vs. It's

 

Some practical guidance, and interesting history, about a common mistake.

play video lay vs lie
Lay vs. Lie

 

Editor Emily Brewster clarifies the difference.

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What is a malaprop?

 

We'll tell you all the perpendiculars

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Video: Why is there a 'c' in 'indict'?

 

And who put it there, anyway?

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Dutch, Yiddish, Japanese, or Hindi? Quiz Guess the language these English words come from.
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