Language Peeve
Oct. 31st, 2008 11:44 amWhat is up with people misusing "let alone" lately?
It drives me crazy.
Let alone is supposed to emphasize the extremity of something.
"He has't even cracked the cover, let alone read the book."
"I couldn't even afford lunch, let alone a new wardrobe."
But lately, more and more, are reversing the terms.
"I couldn't trust him to lead the country, let alone tell the truth."
"He still hasn't quit drinking, let alone cut back."
It drives me BONKERS.
Use Language Responsibly!
It drives me crazy.
Let alone is supposed to emphasize the extremity of something.
"He has't even cracked the cover, let alone read the book."
"I couldn't even afford lunch, let alone a new wardrobe."
But lately, more and more, are reversing the terms.
"I couldn't trust him to lead the country, let alone tell the truth."
"He still hasn't quit drinking, let alone cut back."
It drives me BONKERS.
Use Language Responsibly!