What’s the logical derivation behind definition 3 of to discharge: 3. Do all that is required to perform (a duty) or fulfil (a responsibility): How does the etymology (listed in that link and here) lead to the foregoing meaning? Etymonline: early 14c., “to exempt, exonerate, release,” from Old French deschargier (12c., Modern French décharger) “to … Read more
I want to dredge below these two terms; I’m not asking about the definition or concept, which I perceive thanks to http://www.socialresearchmethods.net/kb/dedind.php and my math studies. How do these two words consist with their respective meanings in logic? http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?allowed_in_frame=0&search=deduce&searchmode=none: deduce = …from de- “down” (see de-) + ducere “to lead” (see duke (n.))… http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?allowed_in_frame=0&search=induce&searchmode=none induce: … Read more
I’d like to dredge below this (legal?) definition of to hold, that differ from the norm. 5.6. (Of a judge or court) rule; decide: Would someone please explain the etymology and the reasoning behind these stricter meanings? Please explain the steps or thought processes, for want of doing so by myself in the future? I … Read more
I’ve read the definition and am not asking about it: according as = ‘Depending on whether’ Instead, I’d like to learn how to anatomize/unravel according as to determine/deduce this definition on the right hand side: ‘Depending on whether’. Please explain the steps or thought processes? It was used here. What part of speech is as … Read more
Would someone please explain the etymology behind this verb? I’m aware of the etymological fallacy, but still want to dredge below and ask not about its definition. Down below on that webpage, it’s written under ‘Origin’: late Middle English (in the sense ‘to outlaw’): from Latin proscribere, from pro- ‘in front of’ + scribere ‘write’. … Read more
When I said “is in a shambles“, a native speaker of American English corrected me, saying it should be “is in shambles.” And it makes sense, because in my case you have a (represents singularity), and shambles, which is plural. Sounds strange—”a shambles.” But nevertheless it is also correct. The question is how do you … Read more
What is the origin of the expression ‘pull a fast one’? Don’t try to pull a fast one on me. I’m not stupid, you know. pull a fast one (on somebody) tell lies or cheat somebody, for example in order to get their money, possessions, etc; deceive somebody. Where did the phrase ‘pull a fast … Read more
Is there any reason why we say 1st, 2nd, 3rd and the rest (4, 5,.. 10,..) are all -th except the one ending in 1, 2, 3? Why does it change specifically for 1, 2, 3? Answer Historical accident. First derives from the same root as fore, before, in the superlative grade—it meant, originally, “fore-est”, … Read more
