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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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play video title words of the year 1066
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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How 'literally' can mean "figuratively"

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i.e. vs. e.g.

 

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

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Webster's Dictionary of 1864

 

The landmark edition that transformed the way dictionaries are made.

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Here's the lowdown on what may be the most confusing pair of words in the English language.

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You don't have to end all your adverbs in -ly to talk right.