Word of the Day: Malapropism

Wednesday, 6 November 2002

Which the Macquarie Dictionary defines as:

1. the act or habit of ridiculously misusing words. 2. a word so misused.

Thanks to Turding of Sydney Indymedia for this fine example:

In order to deflect attention from the U.S. and Israeli governments planned invasion and overthrow of the Iraqi government and to quiet European opposition, the agents are targeting Italian school children. Using technology gleaned from Soviets during the Cold War, these mad scientists manipulated the Teutonic plates in the region to simulate the effects of a natural earthquake.

And thanks to Angela Bell for the link. I've been thinking for some time that I should pay more attention to the boffo left.

Update: those who want a Teutonic plate of their very own can buy this one at E-Bay.