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Re(3): As such... IP: 82.8.190.175 Posted on September 19, 2015 at 06:19:56 PM by Lyndsay Richards
Indeed, languages do, and perhaps should, change. But:
▪ not all changes are for the best. The metaphor of an evolving language can be misleading because it implies that change makes the language fitter for some purpose. For what purpose is John's first example fitter than his second? It just looks like sloppy thinking to me.
▪ even if a change is in the long run desirable, and even inevitable, that doesn't mean we have to enjoy it while it is happening. Perhaps it is now too late to stop the usage of 'begs the question' as though it meant 'suggests the question'. That doesn't mean I can't inwardly groan when I see it. Replies: