Sir, – “Fulsome”, that horrible word, is my suggestion for the chop. Where will its misuse end? The “fulsome Irish breakfast”, the “fulsome stop” or, perhaps, even the “fulsome Monty”? – Yours, etc,
AILISH O’FARRELL,
Clarina. Co Limerick.
Sir, – “Perfect” as for example used by a receptionist in response to my bank account details given in advance settlement of expensive dental treatment; or a tax payment. Perfect for them, perhaps! – Yours, etc,
ANNE CURRAN,
Dunmore East,
Co Waterford.
Sir, – Power outages. Please bring back our blackouts but not at the top of the hour. – Yours, etc,
JOHN MADDEN,
Carndonagh, Co Donegal.
Sir, – Stand out. Whatever happened to outstanding? – Yours, etc,
JIMMY O’DWYER,
Park Lodge,
Castleknock, Dublin 15.
Sir, – Kieran McHugh (January 25th) bemoans the “grammatically incorrect use” of the word “presently” as synonymous with “now”. According to that singularly authoritative record of the living, breathing English language, the Oxford English Dictionary, both usages he describes are more than acceptable. In fact, the “incorrect” usage dates back to the Middle Ages and is still heard, well, presently.
“Rant over”. – Yours, etc,
WILSON JOYCE,
Main Street,
Chapelizod, Dublin 20.
Sir, – As I see it. The acceptable face of government. It’s going to take time. In living memory. Has all the hallmarks. I can’t live without (usually make-up or a handbag!). A team-player. The glass ceiling. Am I alone in thinking?. Punching above their weight (Why?) . An ATM machine. Your PIN number. Your call is important to us. – Yours, etc.
HARRY BOND,
Killurin, Co Wexford.