Do you often mishear what others say a word or two? Today, let’s talk about an eggcorn, which is a word or phrase that has been misheard but is commonly used in place of the original expression. The new word or phrase has a completely different meaning than the original, yet it is still used because it sounds similar and is seemingly plausible when used in the same context.
E.g., “lack
toast and tolerant” is the eggcorn of “lactose intolerant”
Guess what the following underlined eggcorns
in each sentence are originally referred to.
1.
Whether a cup of coffee or two is good for your
health is still a mute point. => ___________ point
2.
Tim hasn’t been recognized for his capability
at work yet, but he’s never going to give up. He is biting his time. => _____________ his time.
3.
It was hilarious when Eric said “super
salad” when he was asked by the waiter what he’d like to have before the
main entrée. => _____________ or salad
4. I had a hard time holding back my laughter when my boss said he got terribly mad at the damp squid of our latest project. => damp _____________
5.
Marley is an ex-patriot who left his
home country 30 years ago. => __________________
6.
Phoebe is the escape goat in her
family. Even her parents accuse her of things that she’s not involved with.
=>
________________ goat
7. Could I
have a cup of expresso? => _________________
8. The
minister was hopeful that his request would illicit a positive response. => _________________ a
positive response9.
9. Bobby is such
a dead wringer of Santa Claus! => dead ___________
10. You need
to stay alert to survive this doggy dog world.
=> __________________________ world
Answer Keys
1. moot
2. biding
3. soup
4. squib
5. expatriate
6. scapegoat
7. espresso
8. elicit
9. ringer
10. dog-eat-dog world
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