Know Your English - October 2009

October 2009

• Why is the place where the pilot sits called a `cockpit'? (20091027)
• What is the meaning and origin of the expression `hair of the dog that bit someone'? (20091027)
• How is the word `paedophile' pronounced? (20091027)
• Is it okay to say `House: To Let'? (20091027)
• What is the difference between `despite of' and `in spite of'? (20091027)
• How is the word ‘ensconce’ pronounced? (20091013)
• Many supermarkets have an express counter with a sign which says, ‘Ten items or less’. Is it okay to use ‘less’ in this context? (20091013)
• What is the meaning and origin of ‘plume yourself on something’? (20091013)
• What is the difference between ‘believe in’ and ‘believe’? (20091013)
• What is the meaning of ‘dog-eared’? (20091013)
• Shut-eye? What's that? (20091006)