Quote:
Originally Posted by murraypaul
I think varied use is just the nature of English as a language.
English is not included in the list of languages with some central regulator.
Usage is ultimately the only definition.
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We all know about The List, Murray Paul -- and thank you, kind sir, for suggesting I sounded like a prim regulator even as I made fun of my own primness [insert schizophrenia emoticon]* -- but that doesn't mean usage alone defines English grammar. Unregulated or otherwise, language is not the model for a libertarian's dream of a regulation-free world. If correct grammar were completely beholden to individual usage, then English teachers, professors, writers, editors and proofreaders wouldn't be needed.
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* (I hope it's apparent I'm kidding about a link to a list of regulators implying personal insult.)