ACX
Highlights From The Comments On "Sorry You Feel That Way"
Scott discusses various interpretations and uses of 'sorry' in response to comments on his previous article about the phrase 'I'm sorry you feel that way'.
9 min read 1,378 words
A thread through the archive
language use
Essays tagged “language use”. Follow an idea across the archive.
Essays on language use
8 essaysACX
Bad Definitions Of "Democracy" And "Accountability" Shade Into Totalitarianism
Scott Alexander argues that misusing terms like 'democratic' and 'accountable' can inadvertently justify totalitarianism, and suggests more careful usage of these terms.
10 min read 1,505 words
SSC
Against Lie Inflation
Scott Alexander argues against broadening the definitions of words like 'lie' and 'abuse', as it dilutes their meaning and reduces their usefulness in identifying problematic behavior.
14 min read 2,119 words
SSC
The Whole City Is Center
Scott Alexander examines the concept of 'laziness' and value differences, exploring how semantic debates can obscure practical communication and understanding.
36 min read 5,580 words
SSC
Fifty (More) Swifties
The post presents 50 'Tom Swifties', a form of wordplay involving quotes and related adverbs, demonstrating the author's wit and knowledge across various fields.
5 min read 699 words
SSC
Social Justice And Words, Words, Words
Scott Alexander critiques social justice terminology, arguing that words like 'privilege' and 'racism' are used as weapons rather than tools for understanding.
27 min read 4,178 words
SSC
Ten Things I Want To Stop Seeing On The Internet In 2014
Scott Alexander humorously criticizes ten irritating internet trends he hopes will end in 2014, ranging from overused words to memes and logical fallacies.
10 min read 1,549 words
SSC
A Response To Apophemi on Triggers
Scott Alexander responds to an essay about trigger warnings in rationalist spaces, arguing that the community's purpose is dispassionate discussion and that everyone, not just marginalized groups, has triggers.
47 min read 7,238 words