Screw the Pooch

**PBI** · 06-10-2008, 10:26

I'm afraid the problem with language (especially slang) is, that if people keep using a phrase the "wrong" way enough, it will eventually become the "right" way. Languages evolve.

If someone uses a phrase in a sense that isn't in the dictionary, one could argue it is the dictionary that is at fault, since the purpose of the dictionary is to describe how the language is used, not to prescribe how it should be used.

An argument I often use during Scrabble.

**Whacker** · 06-10-2008, 10:34

It's not just slang either. One of the most common "words" I've ever heard in the IT industry is "solutioned", used as a verb. It's a non-existent word, yet I hear it almost daily, and honestly I think it sounds fine and correct. Language purists will probably tear their hair out, but I foresee this one making it's way into the dictionary officially eventually. /shrug

**macsen rufus** · 06-10-2008, 13:27

"solutioned", used as a verb.

Speaking as a rather mild language fascist, I must say that one makes me want to retch. It is gross abuse! As for it taking off, I doubt it, as using "solutions" is rapidly becoming a laughable and pitiable component of terminology - Private Eye even devotes a column to deflating those companies that like to describe their services in terms of "solutions". I think the odds favour satire over neologism.

To me "solutioned" (as opposed to "solved") implies, "well, we applied a solution, but it didn't solve anything..."

**Banquo's Ghost** · 06-10-2008, 19:56

Originally Posted by macsen rufus

To me "solutioned" (as opposed to "solved") implies, "well, we applied a solution, but it didn't solve anything..."

Or perhaps, that the idea went so badly wrong everything dissolved...

**LeftEyeNine** · 06-10-2008, 20:02

Is it an appropriate behavior for a moderator to say "WTF ?" ?

**Jubilation T Cornpone** · 06-10-2008, 20:43

This situation is also twisted wildly out of focus by people assuming the original 'dog' referred to the canine variety. Presumably why 'pooch' started to confuse the issue even more. Oh well, bored with this now.