panacea

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2 responses to “panacea”

1. 

   Derek

   2004.11.11

   Hey Thomas,
   I really like reading the definitions that you post of somewhat obscure words (though I did know this one). I am intrigued by the etymology of words, especially in the relationship between many “big words” in English as often simple expressions transliterated from Greek or borrowed from Latin. As I’m sure you’re finding out in Greek, knowing some of the root words makes guessing at the meaning of obscure English words much easier. Also, knowing more words allows one to express thoughts in symbol with a greater semantic range than the similar English counterpart allows. Yeah, I’m rambling now, but I just had to gush because it is something that piques my curiosity. If I had more patience and discipline, linguistic studies might be something I’d like to pursue further educationally… as it is I’ll have to be an armchair wordsmith.

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2. 

   Derek

   2004.11.11

   PS, one other thought on that… I really hate it when accusations fly that people write with a wider vocabulary on a self-aggrandizing mission to make other people think they are smart. I’m sure that happens sometimes, but often good intentions of communicating as clearly and succintly as possible are second-guessed as just such an ego trip. This really gets into the idea of knowing your audience and crafting your communication in such a way so as to express oneself clearly to the other person. Sometimes there is a real tension between clear communication and being genuine. Alright, I’ll get off my soapbox now… you’ll talk about this sort of thing a heckuva lot when you come down here and are in heremeneutics. Hope all is well with you brother, haven’t talked to you in quite awhile. God’s blessings.

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