Semantics
By yarntales
@yarntales (639)
United States
December 13, 2006 8:28am CST
I hate arguments that start because one person used a word another person took exception to.
Example 1: One day I talked about my husband's dr appointment and used the word injection. He wasn't getting an injection that time and kept on saying the same thing over and over. I knew he wasn't getting an injection to start with (sometimes he does) and boy did I regret that word coming out of my mouth. Finally he said you just won't let that go will you? He was the one who kept on me about it, I had let it go.
#2 wasn't an argument, but was an odd situation.
I went to the p.o. to pick up a package because the USPS website said that it was at the p.o. I used the word delivered and the two clerks took exception to it that I said it said delivered. I tried to be polite and state that what I meant was the USPS website said it was at the post office, which it was.
Am i the only one who has these problems?
1 person likes this
12 responses
@desertdarlene (8910)
• United States
14 Dec 06
I'm notorious for this. Sometimes a word would just slip out and I didn't even mean to use that word.
I work for the public and you would't believe how some people twist the words you say. You sometimes can't win. And, it's usually the result of one poor word or usage of a word.
But, in the case of #2, they really shouldn't have gotten upset or even corrected you. I've had that happen to me before. Someone corrected me because of one word I said though they were actually wrong in their correction and what I had originally said was the best way of saying it.
1 person likes this
@micheller (1365)
• United States
13 Dec 06
yes i also have problems with this. and i hate it when people look at you stupidly for it. it just makes me feel like telling them, "i'm sure you have used the wrong words at one time, everyone makes mistakes you jerk."
@yarntales (639)
• United States
4 Jan 07
Yes, everyone does make mistakes. But good luck getting some people to acknowledge it. I do think sometimes people make a huge deal out of something then realize... uh maybe I shouldn't have.
@wahmbrendamh (576)
• United States
30 Dec 06
I really hate when people are like that. I don't understand why they have to take everything so literally. If they didn't then there wouldn't be such a problem as you're having. In reality, I think that it's more their problem than it is yours.
@Willowlady (10658)
• United States
13 Dec 06
Even when we are coming from a good place we are constantly dealing with others perception. The most innocent thing can be dastardly to someone else. You have to chalk it up to one of those days. Also with the postal service, although mine has been wonderful with all the books and movies I mail, have you ever heard about someone going postal..There is a reason for that. Count yourself as fortunate since you noted this and are therefore more aware and on the upward path!
@yarntales (639)
• United States
3 Jan 07
Thanks for your comments. I'm trying to be more careful of my words. It sure isn't always easy, is it?
@volschenkh (1043)
• South Africa
13 Dec 06
I think people are sometimes too sensitive about the words you choose to explain something, Ive also experienced what you mention, I accidentally use a incorrect word or term a few times at work and people would take offense. On the other habd once that had happened I am definately more aware of my choice of words ...
@yarntales (639)
• United States
2 Jan 07
Yes, I agree, I try to be more careful to choose the correct word, as opposed to any word that would fit in the sentence.
@Weasel_Sponge (1069)
• Canada
14 Dec 06
I have this problem a lot-I realize that many commonly used words are used incorrectly or with a different intent than the way I use them, and often people misinterpret what I say. I have to choose my words carefully a lot, it seems!
@alchemistrx (2547)
• Philippines
14 Dec 06
We all have the same problem. I often think before I speak so I could carefully choose the words that comes out my mouth. It's much better for me to keep quiet.
@ozangel82 (753)
• Australia
13 Dec 06
i know exactly what you mean, some people are just have the stick too far up their butt and cant see that sometimes when you are frustrated words just dont come out properly!
@JustSimplyLissa (547)
• United States
13 Dec 06
no your not. I've had the same issues before. It's an unfortunate situation to find one's self in.
I just try my best to get through it and move on.
