Diane Allen, M.A.
Technical Writing Coordinator
Midland College
AFA 131
432/685-6458 office
432/686-4901 fax
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>>> [log in to unmask] 3/16/2006 7:43 AM >>>

The discussion of the broadening of the meaning of 'unique' is
interesting, but I see a different problem that I might call widespread
malapropism.
 
My students often create terms or use them as malapropisms--and these
may be derived from rap music or these may have their roots in Microsoft
Word's spell-checker. Does anyone else know anything more about this?
 
One frequently occurring example is the word 'blase' to mean
"bla-bla-bla" or 'yadayadayada".  My students will actually say: "blase
blase blase" thinking that it is equivalent to these other terms.  So
when this phrase enters widespread use, can we say that the meaning of
'blase' has altered?  (even though most students who use it in this
context do not know that they have altered a meaning; they think they
have learned a new word.)
 
 
How do they pronounce "blase"  in this case:  "blah-zay" or "blaze"? 
Or maybe some other inimitable way?
 
Diane
 
 
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