In a message dated 8/25/2004 5:35:57 PM Pacific Standard Time, [log in to unmask]
writes:
I'd appreciate any opinions as to the merits of this objection.
Martha,

I've heard the phrase and that explanation for years.  One thing to consider,
though, is whether or not it's accurate, is it offensive?  That would seem to
me to be the focus for a writer. After all, unless you want to use copious
footnotes, you will be taking flak for using it if enough people are offended.
(I learned my lesson with "niggardly" - no matter how or where I used it,
someone got huffy over my use of "that word.")

I'm not sure how you determine how many people find it offensive.  I think I
first heard this in the '60s and '70s during the feminist movement, so maybe
only people from my generation are aware of it.

~Gretchen

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