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Word History

Words of the Year: 1066

Why is pig meat called 'pork' and cow meat called 'beef?' Because English took on a big serving of French words following the Norman Conquest.


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Words of the Year: 1066

 

English was never the same after the Norman Conquest

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Its vs. It's

 

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

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Is It 'Hanger' or 'Hangar'?

 

How to remember which is which

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Lay vs. Lie

 

Editor Emily Brewster clarifies the difference.

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Literally

 

A word that (literally) drives people nuts

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What Is an Eggcorn?

 

And how did it get that name?