English is a funny language, they say. But it is always under assault because more often than not we tend to use or understand words based on the mechanism of phonetics-the way the sound and how the brain perceives it. Here’s a list of 10 words, along with their actual meaning, that we’ve been using incorrectly on a daily basis
1. Conversate
Well, most of us think that this is a verb that describes the act of having a conversation. The actual word is converse. Conversate might seem appropriate to the ears, but there is no such word.
2. Bemused
This probably looks, sounds and even feels like amused, it actually means the state of being confused.
3. Disinterested
Contrary to popular belief, disinterested doesn’t mean ‘having no interest in somebody or something’. It means unbiased, fair-minded and objective. For instance, I was uninterested in the movie vis a vis I was disinterested in the movie.
4. Wizened
In general, the elderly are referred to as having wizened with time. However, the word doesn’t mean ‘wise’. It actually means that they have shrivelled, due to age.
5. Enormity
Despite its imminent similarity with the word enormous, the word enormity, quite surprisingly ALSO means extremely evil, and is used to describe heinous crimes! We bet you didn’t know this one!
6. Noisome
It may sound like it has something to do with noise and ears. But, not, you are mistaken. The word actually means something that has an offensive or unpleasant smell.
7. Terrific
In modern times, this word has come to be used as a way to describe something that is awe-inspiring! However, it wasn’t so in the past. It meant ‘causing terror or fear’. Strange, isn’t it?
8. Elaborate
Most people use this word to describe something that is lengthy or grand, conveniently overlooking the fact that the literal meaning of the word is to execute something with detail or great minuteness. Grandeur doesn’t even come close to connote the meaning of elaborate.
9. Historic
The word historic simply means something that is of great significance. It may or may not be essentially related to history!
10.Ambivalent
Yes, add another word to the lot, ambivalent. Most of us believe it means being ‘independent’ or ‘unbiased’. However, it means the coexistence of positive and negative feelings, within an individual, toward the same person, object or action.
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