IXL | Explore words with new or contested usages

Which text uses the word disinterested in its traditional sense?

As a financial advisor, Sofia is required to give disinterested advice and to value her clients' financial interests above her own.

Sofia has been feeling disinterested in her work as a financial advisor; she would prefer to spend more time on her own investments.

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question

Which text uses the word peruse in its traditional sense?

The detective leisurely perused the newspaper, hoping to go unnoticed by the suspect during the stakeout.

The detective carefully perused the newspaper, hoping to find a coded message hidden in the personal ads.

key idea

Words change in meaning when speakers begin using them in new ways. For example, the word peruse once only meant to examine in detail, but it's now also commonly used to mean to look through in a casual manner.

When a word changes in meaning, its correct usage is often debated. Although a newer sense of the word may be more commonly used, many people consider a word's traditional definition to be the correct usage. Being able to distinguish the different uses of a word can help you use it appropriately for different audiences.

Britney perused her notes, carefully preparing for her exam.

The traditional usage above is considered more standard.

David perused the magazine, absentmindedly flipping through the pages.

The nontraditional usage above is now commonly used, but traditional style guides generally advise against it.

solution

The second text uses peruse in its traditional sense: to examine in detail.

The detective carefully perused the newspaper, hoping to find a coded message hidden in the personal ads.

The first text uses peruse in its nontraditional sense: to look through in a casual manner.

The detective leisurely perused the newspaper, hoping to go unnoticed by the suspect during the stakeout.

Most style guides recommend to use the traditional sense of the word peruse because it is considered more standard.

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