Words I Hate

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I think your brain works in similar ways to mine. I also dislike hearing, and try to avoid using, the words "meal" and "supper" - they sound annoying, especially "fish supper" (just say fish and chips!). I agree that "feed" is patronising for adults and will make more of an effort to frown upon its use.

Too 1950s.

Seeing this word in print doesn't bother me. There is just something unpleasant about the spoken version, though--especially when uttered by a woman with a strong Midwestern accent (i.e., the "ea" sound is prolonged).

Too cutesy, especially when used by grown men.

I hate it when politicians and others who are quoted in newspapers use this word to try to sound in touch with the people: "A lot of folks out there are going to be hit by this tax increase." Why not just use the word "people"? Plus, "folks" is a difficult word to say. It doesn't easily roll off the tongue.

Unless someone is referring to the Last Supper, I much prefer "dinner."

I only hate the word "feed" when it is used to refer to adults, such as at an event. For example, "Did they feed you at the reception?" That question conjurs up images of an adult in a bib being spoon fed by a cooing mother. I think that "feed" should be reserved for pets and babies: "Did you feed the dog this morning?"

Because I hate this word, you will never hear me say, "What toppings do you want on your pizza?" Rather, I will just ask, "What do you want on your pizza?"

I only hate this word when one of my peers uses it to address a group of friends. For example, an e-mail that begins: "Hi, Ladies, I hope you all enjoyed the holidays . . . ."