Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Slew

A special complexity of the English language is the sheer number of words it has!  Today, I read that the Greek Prime Minister is facing a large number of critics within his own party.  But did the article use the words "a large number?"  No!  Instead, it used the term "a slew of critics...."

By doing so, the writer implied something more than just a large number or amount--which is the definition of "slew."  The word hints at disorder and confusion, as well.  So good luck to the Prime Minister, and to us all if Greece defaults!

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