Big changes in Associated Press style. The 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' finale was catawampus. Bappy Image

Big changes in Associated Press style. The 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' finale was catawampus. Bappy

16 April - 13 mins
Podcast Series Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing

977. This week, we cover the latest AP Stylebook updates that were just revealed at the ACES conference. From the switch to Merriam-Webster to easing up on the word "unique," we look at what these changes mean for writers and editors. Plus, we explore "catawampus" thanks to its cameo in the "Curb Your Enthusiasm" finale. Learn about its quirky origins, regional differences, and wordy friends like "kitty-corner."

| Kitty-corner map: https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/articles/kitty-corner-or-catty-corner/

| Register for my beginning AP style webinar April 23: bit.ly/ggap2024. Use the code MACMIL for a discount.

| Edited transcript with links: https://grammar-girl.simplecast.com/episodes/ap-...

13 mins

Series Episodes

Efficiency hacks for writers and editors with Erin Brenner

Efficiency hacks for writers and editors with Erin Brenner

986. Erin Brenner, author of "The Chicago Guide for Freelance Editors," shares time-saving tips including the best practices for using Word, creating macros, and using automation tools like Zapier. You'll also learn about starting and growing a freelance business, including how to figure out what to charge, how to make ends meet at the beginning, and how to handle time management once your business starts to succeed.

31 mins

16 May Finished

We found the story behind "whim wham for a mucket"!

We found the story behind "whim wham for a mucket"!

985. This week, we look at the world of whimsical words, including the origins and meanings of terms like "dinkus," "gadzook," "petrichor" and the phrase "whim-wham for a goose's bridle." Plus, I have a quick tip about when to capitalize "mom" and "dad."

15 mins

14 May Finished

Words, coffee, and urban planning: Eli Burnstein on the Dictionary of Fine Distinctions

Words, coffee, and urban planning: Eli Burnstein on the Dictionary of Fine Distinctions

984. This week, we talk about the subtle differences between words such as "stock" and "broth," "street" and "boulevard," "maze" and "labyrinth" and more with Eli Burnstein, author of "The Dictionary of Fine Distinctions." Confusion about colors got him started on this path, but along the way, he gained insights into language, culture, and the subtle differences that shape meanings.

26 mins

9 May Finished

Skunked words. The power of pronouns. Quigleys

Skunked words. The power of pronouns. Quigleys

983. This week, we explore "skunked" words — terms going through hotly disputed meaning changes. We look at the debate between prescriptivists who stick to traditional meanings and descriptivists who accept new usages and what you should do with these words in your own writing. Plus, we learn how using "we" versus "I" alters perceptions of leadership, inclusivity, and status.

17 mins

7 May Finished

Air worms and fire breathing dragons: Old English animal stories with Hana Videen

Air worms and fire breathing dragons: Old English animal stories with Hana Videen

982. Delve into the fascinating world of Old English with medievalist Hana Videen, author of "The Deorhord." We'll uncover the secrets of Old English animal names, from "walking weaver" for spider to the ominous "unland" for a whale's deceptive island.

30 mins

2 May Finished

When (and How) Should You Cite AI? 'Critters,' 'Varmints,' and Beyond. Choobers.

When (and How) Should You Cite AI? 'Critters,' 'Varmints,' and Beyond. Choobers.

981. Major style guides now have advice on when and how you should cite AI chatbots such as ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini. We look at what you need to include in your writing so you're handling this kind of information credibly and professionally. Then, we take a linguistic safari through the world of animal terminology, including the histories and nuances behind words such as "critter," "varmint," and "beast."

17 mins

30 April Finished

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