For this week’s Wednesday Words, I’m going to look at just that: Words.
What a difference just one letter makes. Here’s an example:
Compliment: Expression of praise, congratulation, etc.
Complement: That which makes something complete.
Just after Christmas 2012, a supermarket near to where I live was selling off cranberry sauce, chestnut stuffing, and suchlike. A sign read:
TURKEY COMPLIMENTS HALF PRICE
I doubt that any turkeys would pay humans any compliments at that time of year, at any price.
And then, more recently, I went to a dismantling yard to obtain some parts for my (ahem) elderly conveyance. There, I saw another sign:
ALL CUSTOMERS MUST REPORT TO THE OFFICE BEFORE
WONDERING ABOUT THE YARD
It was just an ordinary sort of place. I was neither considering its attributes, nor was I awestruck.
Oh dear, this language of ours!
It's kind to share!
Ha this made me giggle! The apostrophe is one that baffles me lol x
This really made me smile, as I am a bit of a pedant for English language. “Turkey Compliments” – so funny!
Thanks for joining #chucklemums
I do love me some complimentary snacks or water. Makes my day. Pedants unite #chucklemums