How a bright college freshman might say it: “This legislation must be implemented with the utmost diligence.” Ponderous, ponderous.
How President Obama said it: “You should pass this bill right away.” (And variations thereupon.)
“It is a general truth that short words are not only handier to use, but more powerful in effect; extra syllables reduce, not increase, vigour”: H.W. Fowler, A Dictionary of Modern English Usage (1926).
And yes, they should pass this bill right away.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Eight syllables
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I thought it a great speech! Only thing missing: "Call Your Congressman and Senators. You should do this right away."
ReplyDeleteI think that’s what’s coming as he visits states.
ReplyDelete