Conversation stoppers.

Every now and again I come across a word or a phrase I immediately like. From there on in I always try to make a point about incorprating that word/phrase into my active vocabulary. Here are some:

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Ambidextrous:

1. Able to use both hands with equal facility.


2. Unusually skillful; adroit.


3. Deceptive or hypocritical.

How to use:

- "Gee, did you see Ronnie O'Sullivan win the snookerfinal yesterday?"
- "Why, yes, I did. Isn't it amazing that he can shoot as well as he can with both hands?"
- "Oh, you mean that he's ambidextrous?"
- "What?!"
- "Nevermind."

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Non Sequiter:

1. An inference or conclusion that does not follow from the premises or evidence.


2. A statement that does not follow logically from what preceded it.

How to use:

- "Billy didn't show up for work today. He must be sick."
- "Tut tut, my friend. The fact that William did not show up for work does not automatically mean he is sick. This is a classic case of a non sequitur."
- "Are you trying to pick a fight with me?"

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Deus Ex Machina:

1. In Greek and Roman drama, a god lowered by stage machinery to resolve a plot or extricate the protagonist from a difficult situation.


2. An unexpected, artificial, or improbable character, device, or event introduced suddenly in a work of fiction or drama to resolve a situation or untangle a plot.


3. A person or event that provides a sudden and unexpected solution to a difficulty.

How to use:

- " .... and then my neighbour came out of nowhere and saved the day."
- "You don't say. I do believe that that would make your neighbour a socalled Deus Ex Machina.
- "Really? He doesn't look like he's gay. I mean, he's married and all."

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End of class, kids. Remember to read chapter twelve for next week.

Cheers