Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing Can you use ‘epicenter’ for positive things? The etymology of ‘bro.’ Mukwonago, Oconomowoc.
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Sep 30, 2025 Explore whether the word 'epicenter' can have positive connotations and the public's mixed reactions. Discover the fascinating evolution of 'bro' from 'brother,' along with its offshoots like 'boy' and 'buddy.' Dive into linguistic theories about how these terms have shifted meaning over time. Finally, enjoy a light-hearted familect story that ties together family memories with a humorous twist on town names.
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Epicenter's Metaphorical Controversy
- People debate whether "epicenter" should be used metaphorically and whether it should carry negative connotations.
- Mignon Fogarty found only about half of her followers accept a positive use compared with 62% of 1996 usage experts.
Negative And Dramatic Associations
- Many listeners feel "epicenter" carries negative or disaster associations and resist positive uses.
- Some also object when the term describes small or trivial things as unnecessarily dramatic.
Three Common Objections To Epicenter Use
- Objections include size, event vs. place, and geological precision about epicenter location.
- Listeners varied: some want it reserved for big events, others for specific locations or events only.
