Certain odd words, common enough that I come across them in my reading every few months, drive me to the dictionary where I read the entry, go “Oh, yeah, that’s what it means.” But then I always forget the definition the next time I encounter the word. Some examples are recherche, vicissitude, nonplussed, and gainsay. Would using them in my everyday sentences reinforce the meaning? Can you find a context that would allow them to be spoken without sounding silly? Give me a good sentence using each one, or describe your own such odd words.
Here’s one …" Argument’s an intellectual process. Contradiction’s just the
automatic gainsaying of anything the other person says. "
So “gainsaying” means something like “superficial negation”?
I think the problem is no one else will understand what you are saying. For example, most people think “nonplussed” means unfazed but its definition is almost the opposite (surprised).
So, it is difficult to use it as it was meant in everyday conversation because almost no one will get what you are saying.
That’s okay. I don’t mind explaining a pedantic point to the confused if it helps me feel comfortable with the word. My aim is to incorporate it into my vocabulary so it doesn’t send me to the dictionary again.
No it isn’t.
In case you don’t get the reference, the sentence posted by pjd was from a Monty Python sketch called “The Argument Clinic”.
Yes, pretty much. iow, contradiction.
No, I got it. (Your turn.)
I am nonplussed that anyone would gainsay the idea that regularly using such recherché words could ameliorate the vicissitudes of fortune.
Fie, Sirrah! Fie I say!
If you’re eager to add a word to your vocabulary, just pretend that someone used it to kick your butt in a game of Scrabble. “What does that word mean?” your friend will ask. Then you’ll have a dandy excuse to supply the definition. Of course, you wouldn’t be able to use this strategy too often, lest your friends ask you to cool it with all the damn Scrabble you’ve been playing lately. So be sure to pick and choose when you decide to use it.
Very thaumaturgic!
Here are some podcasts relating to vocabulary. Wayword Radio, (linked to A Way With Words), Vocal Fries, and The Allusionist.
Way with Words - Sundays 1 - 2 pm in my area