X Marks the Scot - An on-line community of kilt wearers.
-
27th September 05, 03:19 PM
#11
No "official" English definitions
 Originally Posted by Freedomlover
Well, you can lobby to change the language if you like. But even if the official definition is altered common usage will not be.
Well, I can't explain why the Compact OED online looks more like Websters than the Concise OED I have on my desk. Oh well.
There is no official definition of English words. That's the entire point. English is a language of convention. English words mean what English speakers believe the word to mean. We have no Committee of Immortals. English Dictionary writers try to describe, not prescribe, the meanings.
Last edited by jkdesq; 27th September 05 at 03:23 PM.
Reason: correction
-
Posting Permissions
- You may not post new threads
- You may not post replies
- You may not post attachments
- You may not edit your posts
-
Forum Rules
|
|
Bookmarks