I get a kick out of words used in advertising or marketing that don’t mean anything. Well, not that they don’t mean anything, but are used in a context that doesn’t.
For example, we’re sort of in the market for a new house and we went to see one that was listed as an “executive ranch house”. Now, what does “executive” mean in this case? Nothing! I gather that the realtor was trying to get the idea across that this is a classy, high end home, but “executive”?
My wife bought a package of cosmetic items recently which contains “Professional whitening toothpaste”. Wouldn’t do to use that amateur toothpaste…
The word “romantic” seems to be used pretty indiscriminately, especially as Valentine’s Day approaches.
There are also words that lose their meaning with over use. I call them “platter words”. If you say “platter” repeatedly is just sounds like gibberish.
The word “enhancement” doesn’t mean anything in advertising. They never actually tell you what the product does…only what it’s used for.
I chuckle at the word “exclusive” as used in real estate advertising. Really, I think…and who are you trying to exclude? Well, I guess anyone without the money, but still…
They’re trying to exclude “them”. You know who THEY are…
Reminds me of an old Groucho Marx story. Early in the Marx Bros career, Groucho tried to join an"exclusive" club which in this case meant that among others they didn’t allow Jews to join. Groucho was turned down.
Years later, when the Marx Brothers were at the height of their popularity and earning a lot of money, this same club actually solicited Groucho to have him join the club. He turned them down, saying “I would have no part in any club that would allow me as a member!”
I’m pretty certain that they’re wanting to exclude me. I’m fine with that, all the hints and innuendo save me the bother of checking things out. I think the communities that have excessive rules are sad. Why don’t they want clotheslines in their neighborhood? Is that too green and economical? Where do the kids create their makeshift tents when they’re playing?
One of my favorites is “wheat bread.” They’re trying to give the impression that the bread is made of unrefined whole wheat flour (which it’s not, unless the word “whole” is in the title…your typical “wheat” bread is simply white bread with some caramel coloring added to make it look healthy), but it must work…apparently because a lot of buyers don’t stop to think that every single loaf of bread on that supermarket shelf, be it white, brown, pumpernickel, etc., is made of wheat!
Excuse me, but pumpernickel (for example) is mostly rye. I hear that in America you have “corn” bread, which is made from maize. And there are some (repulsive) gluten-free breads, which are made from stuff such as potatoes.
Not here in the USA.
Most mundane breads are mostly wheat. Here Rye bread has a bit more rye grains in it.
Pumpernickel has a bit of rye and usually a lot of caramel coloring.
I hear that in America you have “corn” bread, which is made from maize.
Some maize but there’s usually a wheat product in there as well.
And there are some (repulsive) gluten-free breads, which are made from stuff such as potatoes.
What comes to mind as bread with potatoes in it also has wheat in it.
We call them English Muffins.
BTW, words that don’t mean anything? What about prices that really don’t mean a thing.
Excuse me, when I see a price for a house cleverly (?) listed as $399,000.00 my mind interprets the price as $400,000.00. I can’t believe realitors think I’m the exception to the rule and the rest of America is so stupid not to see through them.
But see, then they can put up a big sign that says “Crowne Pointe, exclusive executive townhomes, from the 300’s.”
(with new and improved financing available to qualified buyers. See a sales counselor for details.)
That’s ok mute. We’ll pronounce it mutpoint if you want us to.
For what it’s worth, I live in “Olde Severna Park.”(and someone dreamed that up in the 40’s.)
Truth be told, Mute, what with that E at the end of yer moniker, it looks sort of French, and I always want to pronounce it “mewt-pwahnt”. Don’t blame me.
