CURRENTS September 2016 | Page 16

16 Currents September 2016 EAGLE PACK & SHIP CENTER DISCOUNT SHIPPING PERSONAL MAILBOXES WITH A PHYSICAL ADDRESS • Fax Services • Internet Access • Keys • Ship Luggage • Notary • Laminating • FREE Pick Up/ Delivery HAPPY LABOR DAY! NEW “As Seen On TV” items 954-973-1690 Office Supplies/ Packing Materials, etc. Now selling 1245 S. Powerline Road Pompano Beach, FL 33069 ATLANTIS PAINTING THE COMPANY YOU WILL RECOMMEND TO A FRIEND • FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED • HONEST AND RELIABLE • WE USE ONLY QUALITY PAINT • TEXTURED WALLS • • WALLPAPER REMOVAL • LICENSED AND INSURED (954) 234-3421 > continued from page 15 killed King Harold of England and defeated the English army. After William's victory, French became the official language of England, especially among the educated nobles at court. Most common people, however, continued to speak English. Through time and necessity, many French words have entered the English language, and today are still considered more refined than their Germanic counterparts. For instance, the names of many animals have Germanic roots, but the names of the meat from these animals come from French: beef (French boeuf), veal (French veau), pork (French porc), mutton (French mouton). There are, of course, exceptions such as chicken and turkey (both Germanic in origin). Euphemisms are helpful in situations when we want to be polite. Since the word “fat” sends a negative message, we may describe Leslie as a full-figured woman or Jason as a big man. Not surprisingly, stores all over the country now feature plus-sizes for women and big and tall fashions for men. Out of respect, Americans generally use euphemisms when they talk about death. Instead of saying that someone has died, they comment that an individual has passed away or gone to heaven. Soldiers who die in combat have served their country, done their duty, or made the ultimate sacrifice. In conclusion, words are not helpless little members of the language family. Each word has its own continued on page 18 >