11 Everyday Phrases You Might Be Saying Incorrectly
Whatever the reason, we've totally bastardized parts of the English language, often changing the phrases' meanings, too.
These 11 examples always come out incorrectly. Let's set the record straight.
1. For all "intents and purposes" - not for all "intensive purposes"
If you say "for all intensive purposes," you mean "for all these very thorough purposes," which doesn't make any sense.
On the other hands, "for all intents and purposes" means "for all the reasons I did this and all the outcomes." It's a much stronger cliche.
2. Nip it in the "bud" - not nip it in the "butt"
This phrase should imply you cut a new bud (off a plant), not bit someone in the backside.
3. One "and" the same - not one "in" the same
"One in the same" refers to one thing in a group of other things that look the same - meaningless. "One and the same" means that two things are alike.
4. "By" accident - not "on" accident
Even though you do something on purpose, you can't do something on accident. "By accident" is technically correct. English is crazy.
5. Case "in" point - not case "and" point
"Case in point" means, "Here's an example of this point I'm trying to make." The version with "and" makes them two different things, which isn't helpful to your argument at all.
For the record, the plural is "cases in point."
6. Should/could/would "have" - not should/could/would "of"
Using "of" here is just wrong. You need to pair a verb with another verb. Otherwise, people will think "of" what?
7. You've got another "think" coming - not you've got another "thing"coming
So what "thing" do I have coming? Instead, saying "You've got another 'think' coming" means someone should think again.
8. "Wreak" havoc - not "wreck" havoc
To "wreck" havoc means to destroy havoc, which is the exact opposite of this phrase's meaning. When you "wreak havoc," you're spreading chaos, anarchy, and destruction everywhere, which is really fun.
9. I "couldn't" care less - not I "could" care less
If you "could" care less, you're admitting there are other, less important things in world, which takes away the sting of your comment. By saying you "couldn't" care less, that means nothing else exists on the planet that matters less you. Major burn.
10. Try "to" - not try "and"
Consider this example: I'm going to try and dance. So what are you going to try while you're dancing? Vietnamese food? A new hat? Instead, say "I'm going to try to dance," meaning you will attempt to move your body in a rhythmic way.
11. "Supposedly" - not "supposably"
"Supposably" isn't even a word. It's a slight but important distinction.