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On language: er, um, (ahem!)

Article Abstract:

The use of the arch pause in written communications and publications is discussed. The origin of the increasingly widespread application of such pauses as "er", "um", "well", and "ahem" may have been The Economist in 1975.

Author: Safire, William
Publisher: The New York Times Company
Publication Name: The New York Times Magazine
Subject: General interest
ISSN: 0028-7822
Year: 2001

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Shtick

Article Abstract:

The origin of the word "shtick" is analyzed along with its varying interpretations. Correct ways to use umlauts are noted, along with some words which are in vogue.

Author: Safire, William
Publisher: The New York Times Company
Publication Name: The New York Times Magazine
Subject: General interest
ISSN: 0028-7822
Year: 2001
Slang, Yiddish language

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Chad: a lexical star is born

Article Abstract:

"Chad" is a word that was a mystery to most people before its use in ballot counting the the Florida presidential election of 2000.

Author: Safire, William
Publisher: The New York Times Company
Publication Name: The New York Times Magazine
Subject: General interest
ISSN: 0028-7822
Year: 2000

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Subjects list: United States, Analysis, Language and languages
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