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Warning: this episode contains reference to shark attacks.
Episode 13 of "I Hate Talking" opens with a discussion about the superstition surrounding the number 13 and its omission in contexts like building floors and episode numbering. The hosts reflect on their reluctance to skip numbers in sequences and share personal anecdotes about encountering missing numbers due to cultural beliefs about luck.
Main Topics:
- Colloquialisms and Commonly Misused Phrases:
The episode’s central theme is the exploration of colloquial expressions that are often used incorrectly. The hosts define a colloquialism as an informal, familiar expression, often not meant to be taken literally, such as "you're nuts" or "don't chicken out." They focus on three main phrases:- "Nip it in the bud" vs. "Nip it in the butt":
The correct phrase is "nip it in the bud," referencing stopping something early before it grows, as with pruning plants. The hosts discuss how mishearing or unfamiliarity with the word "bud" leads to the incorrect version, "nip it in the butt." - "Temper your expectations" vs. "Tamper your expectations":
They clarify that "temper" (to moderate or reduce intensity) is correct, while "tamper" (to meddle or interfere) is incorrect. The etymology is explored, noting that "tamper" actually evolved from "temper" in the 16th century, possibly due to mishearing. - "I couldn't care less" vs. "I could care less":
The hosts explain that "I couldn't care less" is the correct phrase to express minimal concern, while "I could care less" is a misstatement, possibly caused by mishearing the contraction "couldn't." They also discuss the concept of contractions and how they can lead to confusion in spoken language.
- Vacation Experience and Shark Attack Incident:
In the latter part of the episode, the hosts recount a recent family vacation to Florida. While enjoying the beach and pool, they narrowly missed being present during a nearby shark attack that seriously injured a woman and, shortly after, two teenage girls. The discussion turns reflective, considering how quickly lives can change due to unforeseen events and expressing empathy for the victims and their families. The hosts describe the beach’s geography and speculate on how easily they themselves could have been affected.
Conclusion:
The episode blends lighthearted linguistic exploration with a sobering account of real-life unpredictability. The hosts encourage listeners to "temper their expectations" for the episode’s structure, humorously referencing their earlier discussion of the phrase, and close with reflections on the fragility of life and the importance of clarity in language.
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Any views expressed on this podcast are those solely of the hosts and is for entertainment purposes only. None of the content is medical advice or financial advice.
Special thanks to Tim Wright aka CoLD SToRAGE for his permission to use the song Operatique.
