Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing
Does 'book-book' make sense? Fun words for jigsaw lovers. Chilly chickens.
Jan 28, 2025
Discover the quirky world of repeated words like 'salad-salad,' revealing their unique meanings. Celebrate National Puzzle Day with a dive into the rich history of jigsaw puzzles and playful terms such as 'whimsy' and 'puzzband.' Learn about the evolution of puzzling vocabulary and how it reflects a passion for this pastime. Enjoy a light-hearted exploration of language that connects playfulness with deeper cultural themes!
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Quick takeaways
- The concept of contrastive focus reduplication, such as 'salad-salad,' emphasizes authenticity in language by clarifying meaning and categorization.
- The evolution of jigsaw puzzles has created a unique vocabulary, enhancing the communal enjoyment of this once solitary pastime through creative terminology.
Deep dives
The Fun of Contrastive Focus Reduplication
Contrastive focus reduplication is a linguistic phenomenon where words are intentionally repeated to emphasize authenticity or intensity. For example, saying 'salad salad' indicates a traditional green salad, distinguishing it from variations like jello salad. This repetition, employed in everyday language, helps clarify meaning and focuses attention on specific categories. Its prevalence across different age groups and cultures showcases its adaptability and the shared human experience in communication.
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