Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing 'Heat wave' vs. 'cold snap.' Why reading stories makes you smarter. Rogering.
Jul 29, 2025
Delve into the fascinating histories of phrases like 'heat wave' and 'cold snap,' and explore quirky idioms such as 'raining cats and dogs.' Discover how reading, especially fiction, enhances language skills and can lead to greater socioeconomic success. Plus, enjoy a humorous tale about the term 'rogering' and join the fun by sharing your own family dialects. This engaging discussion highlights the relationship between language, literature, and personal connections.
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Why Heat Waves and Cold Snaps Differ
- Heat waves are described as waves because heat builds and lingers gradually.
- Cold snaps are described as snaps due to their sudden and sharp arrival.
Quirky Weather Idioms' Origins
- Weather idioms like 'raining cats and dogs' have historical and cultural origins.
- These idioms shape our colorful way of describing weather experiences.
Fiction Boosts Language Skills
- Reading fiction predicts better language skills than nonfiction.
- Fiction's advantage isn't from more SAT words but possibly from engaging emotions or interest.