Relax, Refresh your English knowledge 149
615. What is the difference between `backward' and `backwards'?
In terms of meaning, there is no difference. For example, you can say, `The absent minded professor had put his shirt on backwards.' It is also possible to use `backward' in the sentence. The British generally tend to use `backwards', while the Americans use `backward'. It is very much like the use of the words `toward' and `towards'. Americans prefer `toward', while the British favour `towards'. When used as an adjective (that is when used before a noun), however, you can only use `backward'. In the sentences given below, we cannot use `backwards'. *The children walked out the cave without a backward glance. *Sandhya took a couple of deep breaths before doing her three backward flips. "I have never married because I have three pets that answer the same purpose as a husband. I have a dog that growls all morning, a parrot that swears all afternoon, and a cat that comes home late at night." — Marie Corell
616. Is it OK to say, `Irregardless of what you say, I plan to marry him'?
`Irregardless' is a word that has caused a great deal of controversy. It has the same meaning as `regardless'; it is a word that is mostly used in informal contexts in America English. According to experts, it is a blend of `irrespective' and `regardless'. The word is considered non-standard, and hence not all dictionaries include it. This is because the word `irregardless' consists of two negatives; the prefix `ir' means `not', and the suffix `less' means `without'. Avoid using the word.
617. What is the meaning of `devil-may-care-attitude'?
A person who has a very casual attitude about things in general is said to have a devil-may-care attitude. This individual is rather carefree, and doesn't get terribly worked up if things don't go according to plan. He is rather reckless and doesn't really worry about the consequences. The expression is considered to be rather old fashioned. It is also possible to say, `devil-may-care manner'.
*When it comes to his studies, Sandeep has a devil-may-care attitude.
A collection from the Open Page Supplement of The Hindu Newspaper
Courtesy: Sri Upendra, the writer of the above
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