Have you ever wondered why the words “gift” and “present” are so different yet mean the same thing? Sure, they’re sometimes used in different contexts (people say “the gift of life” but never “the present of life” and a present (object) shouldn’t be confused with the present (time)), but generally, both mean the same thing: […]
Gifts, Presents, and a Brief History on the English Language Read More »
In the early days of conquests and people discovering new lands, it was common for the leader of an expedition or an influential person to name the settlement. Many of the cities and countries we know today were actually named during the days of colonization. However, based on a few locations across the world, it’s
Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgoger – ychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch: Yes, That Is a Word Read More »
Each country has its own culture of showing patriotism. Many countries that were previously colonised but gained their independence centuries ago still continue to celebrate their day of independence. In countries like South Korea and China, citizens opt for traditional attires over western-style clothing for formal events. And in some countries, citizens prefer to speak
Explaining “Vive La France!” and Why France Is a Very Patriotic Country Read More »
Lawyers, doctors, pilots, engineers, businessmen, politicians — all these professionals were able to pursue their distinctive careers because of teachers. Without our beloved professors and advisers, there will be no one to teach us and hone our abilities and potentials. More so, teachers play a vital role in education. They are the ones responsible for
There is No End in Learning: Why Professional Development is Important for Educators Read More »
It’s easy for native English speakers to understand the rules and nuances of the English language, which is why we never really think that learning the language is difficult. But in truth, seeing that the current English language is simply the bastardized mix of languages from all over the world, if you look at the
Which, Either, Or, or Nor: How to Ask Between Two Choices Read More »
In the English language, there are a lot of interchangeable words and synonyms that can be confusing for someone who isn’t a native English speaker. For example, you can call your local 7-Eleven a “convenience store,” but you can also call it a “corner store.” Or you can say someone has a “white collar job,”
The Difference Between Hat, Cap, and Other Terms for Headgear Read More »
Writing a story – even just a short story – is a lot like painting a picture. First, you start with a blank canvass. This can be very daunting, especially if you don’t know where to begin. But if you can get past the challenge and create a logical (though in the age of postmodernism,
Writing for Beginners: How to Create a Logical, Fleshed Out Short Story Read More »
Plenty of English and non-English speaking civilizations use titles when addressing other people as a sign of respect. For the most part, we don’t notice when we call someone a Sir or Mr., suffix a PhD at the end of someone’s name when writing their academic accomplishments, or address a person by their profession because
Mr., Ms., and Mrs.: How to Use These Titles Properly Read More »
After writing my last article explaining “rooting for the underdog,” I’ve since started watching analysis videos on the show Black Mirror by YouTuber Bryce Dallas Brown. In one of my favorite episodes, “Crocodile,” Brown gives a really good explanation why it was given that title. It symbolizes the crocodile-like grip of the consequences of the
English Idioms Decoded: What Are Crocodile Tears? Read More »
I – and I know many others – are terrible at saying no. When posed with a request we know that we want to turn down, we’re so sensitive of how others are going to react that we either awkwardly beat around the bush or ultimately end up saying yes at our own expense. It
How to Say No for People Who Are Terrible at Saying No Read More »
