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ownedgirlie -> RE: Why do we need definitions? Take 4 (10/24/2006 8:54:29 PM)
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As with any "group," there will be common language that is universally agreed upon, and language that is not. I tend to think rather literally, so broad uses for words sometimes throw me. In reading definitions threads, I find it interesting to read other points of view, and sometimes an idea or two is represented that makes sense to me that I would not have considered before. However, most of those threads end up in silly arguments and cease to hold my attention.
The use of words is tricky because they can have many meanings. I learned that the hard way in speaking another language and using what I thought was a universal term...only to find out that in that particular context, it meant something entirely different.
Even in the wonderful group of CM, I was once told by one respected poster that my definition meant nothing if not pulled from Oxford itself (using Websters was deemed too easy, it seemed, lol). All righty then. I do tend to be one of those believers of traditional uses of language. It is easier for me to comprehend. For example, "irregardless" bugs the stuffing out of me and yet it is becoming incorporated into our normal language. There is regarding, and regardless. Irregardless just means regarding. It can get ya dizzy, ya know? In this way, I think the evolution of language can be a disservice. Then again, I can be much looser with words than others are, so it's a matter of perspective.
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