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Words, coffee, and urban planning: Eli Burnstein on the Dictionary of Fine Distinctions
May 9, 2024
Author Eli Burnstein discusses the nuances between words like stock and broth, street and boulevard, maze and labyrinth. He shares insights into language, culture, and the subtle differences that shape meanings. From color confusion to urban planning details, the podcast explores a range of interesting topics.
26:33
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Quick takeaways
- The Dictionary of Fine Distinctions explores subtle differences in words like 'stock' or 'broth' to unveil overlooked meanings.
- Eli Burnstein highlights the distinctions between coffee beverages like latte and cappuccino, revealing cultural nuances.
Deep dives
Exploring Nuances in Language Distinctions
The podcast features an interview with Eli Bernstein, author of the Dictionary of Fine Distinctions, discussing the subtle differences between words like street, avenue, and drive. Bernstein explains that his book delves into commonly confused terms and the inspiration behind his work, highlighting distinctions that are often overlooked or misunderstood. Through humorous anecdotes and personal experiences, Bernstein shares how his curiosity and desire to avoid embarrassment drove him to explore the intricacies of language.
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