The spelling bade, on the other hand, corresponds to the long vowel in the Old English past plural and 2nd sing. Thus, both the pronunciation and the spelling make etymological sense; they just originate …

Oct 26, 2015 · Always positive. Although it's a combination of what sounds like two insults, I don't believe "badass" has ever had a negative meaning. The Online Etymology Dictionary traces its …

"Not bad" means "not bad". It can be made to mean "good", but then again so can anything — including plain "bad" itself. Read up on litotes. I am certain your native language has a similar or even …

Nov 19, 2010 · I have seen many people use the phrase "my bad" in Internet forums. What does it exactly imply and is it a proper English phrase?

Apr 16, 2018 · Q&A for linguists, etymologists, and serious English language enthusiasts

Aug 31, 2014 · What is the origin of the word badass? Why a "bad" ass/"bad" + "ass"? What is an ass that is bad and how can an ass that is bad describe a tough person?

I think what you feel uncomfortable with is contraction of "have" as a main verb. When it's an auxiliary verb in, say, a perfect, contraction feels fine: I've had a car before. But contraction of main verb …

Apr 25, 2018 · Q&A for linguists, etymologists, and serious English language enthusiasts

Q&A for linguists, etymologists, and serious English language enthusiasts

4 days ago · Q&A for linguists, etymologists, and serious English language enthusiasts