Speak Right

January 28

ashfault/asphalt

"Ashfault" is a common misspelling of "asphalt."

from Common Errors in English Usage

REALLY??? WTF????

And in other Common Errors, the correct phrase is "all of A sudden," not "all of THE sudden."

Now you know. Anyone missing my Bush Countdown Desk Calendar yet?

Speak Right

From January 12—

Degree Titles

When you are writing phrases like "bachelor's degree," "masters of arts degree," and "doctor of philosophy degree" use all lower-case spelling. Less formally, these are often abbreviated to "bachelor's," "master's," and "doctorate." The only time to capitalize the spelled-out forms of degree names is when you are specifying a particular degree's name: "Master of English Composition." However, abbreviations BA, MA, and PhD are all capitalized. In modern usage periods are not usually added.

From January 13–

Female vs. Woman

It may be inconsistent, but the pattern of referring to females as women performers, professionals, etc. is very traditional, dating back at least to the 14th century. People who do this cannot be accused of committing an error.

Speak Right

Yesterday's Common Error calendar page was one that I have in fact struggled with in the past—wile away/while away.

The traditional phrase is "While away the time." Some dictionaries accept the illogical "wile away," but it is distinctly less standard.

While I am all for being less standard in daily life, when it comes to language, I try (though often fail) to rise above the huddled masses. So go forth gentle readers and while away your Friday . . .