Month: November 2007

“Iniquity” vs. “Inequity”

Common English Blunders, Nouns, Versus

Misuse of these two words is rare, but they’re worth a second look.

Problem:
The nouns “iniquity” and “inequity” are not synonyms.

Explanation:
The primary definition of the noun “iniquity” is gross immorality or wickedness. For example, identified iniquities of the sinners would be appropriate. The primary definition of the noun “inequity ” is lack of equity or fairness. For example, identified inequities in the public-education system would be appropriate.

Solution:
Use “iniquity” when you want to refer to sin, depravity, or evildoing; use “inequity” when you want to refer to unfairness.

“As the Earth rotated around the Sun …”

Common English Blunders, Verbs, Versus

I saw this in the splash animation at www.take.tv.

Problem:
The verb “rotated” is incorrect here.

Explanation:
The verb “rotate” means to turn around on, or as if on, an axis. The verb “revolve” means to follow a circular or elliptical course around another body. The verbs “rotate” and “revolve” are not synonyms. The Earth rotates (on its axis) and revolves (around the Sun) at the same time. The Earth rotates once every twenty-four hours; the Earth revolves around the Sun once per year. Rotation gives us day and night; revolving gives us the four seasons.

Solution:
“As the Earth revolved around the Sun …”

Give a little. Get a lot.

General

Happy Thanksgiving, 2007.

On this day of giving thanks, it’s worthwhile to consider those less fortunate than us.

In particular, consider children who now face a future with lowest literacy proficiency. These children need our help, and I have written an article about what you can do.

If you had never learned to read or write, what would your world be like today? Can you imagine being surrounded by people who cannot read or write, or read or write well?

“Our Future Depends on Our Literacy” challenges you to get involved with an organization that knows that our future depends on our literacy.

Please read the article and then take action in whatever way works for you.

Thank you. By giving a little, we can all get a lot.