Why Do Some Americans Abuse Latin Words?
“Quidquid latine dictum sit altum videtur” -- a phrase often attributed to St. Jerome, suggesting that anything said in Latin sounds profound. Yet, just that idea might itself be considered an abuse of the Latin language. Let's dive into the misuse and proper use of Latin words in modern American English through the lens of a hobbyist known for compiling lists of 3-letter words with Latin origins.
The Hobby of Latin Words
This particular list-maker enjoys cataloging words that, despite not being 4-letter words, share their origins in Latin. Words like box, tax, pit, and use may seem ordinary in everyday English, but tracing them back to Latin reveals their grand, scholarly roots. This hobby, however, raises a fundamental question: is it even possible to abuse a language derived from roots as ancient and profound as Latin?
The term ‘abuse’ is open to interpretation. If it implies a misuse or overuse of these Latin-derived terms, then yes, some do consider this misuse. However, understanding the linguistic process reveals that Latin has not been strictly adhered to in its English applications. The Latin roots have permeated through centuries, transforming into American English with their own flavor and idiosyncrasies.
Overlooking Latin Roots
Consider the word “i.e.” as an example. It’s Latin for “id est,” meaning “that is.” Yet, as many English speakers might only pronounce it “aj j” as a standalone word, it almost loses its Latin roots. This demonstrates how Latin terms can adapt to fit differently in English, sometimes even changing pronunciation and meaning to better suit English contexts. Similarly, “centuries”, “scholars”, and “academic” all have Latin origins but have evolved into more specific or general meanings within the English language.
Another interesting point is that English is far from unique in borrowing words. Italian has borrowed “weekend” and “taxi,” French has “wagon,” and modern Japanese has a vast array of English-derived terms. Just like these other languages, English has adopted Latin words for various purposes, sometimes transforming them into something new.
Why Americans Prefer Latin Words
It's a common observation that in official contexts, Americans tend to favor Latinate or French-derived words over native English ones. This preference might be because these words sound fancier or more scholarly. For instance, the word “do” is used more often in American English than other English speakers, and it’s part of a richer vocabulary derived from Latin and French roots. Even in the United States, italicized Latin words often occur in scientific terminology, pointing to a longstanding academic tradition of using these languages.
Conclusion
The concept of "abusing" Latin words in American English is a nuanced and subjective matter. While it's true that many English words, including the very term “abuse,” have Latin origins, the transformation of these words into their English forms is a natural part of language evolution. Understanding how Latin words have been adapted over time and how they continue to influence modern language can help dispel the notion that there is any true 'abuse' of the language. Instead, it highlights the rich and diverse nature of English, reflecting its many linguistic influences over the centuries.