| Definitions and Usage | Entry id: repository |
|
By The Famous Brett Watson On Fri, 16 Mar 2001 16:56:00 +1100 |
[This is an email that I sent to a co-worker. Be warned: I quote a dictionary definition that contains words some people might consider naughty.]
Warren,
I've overlooked this issue for some time, but I really feel that it needs to be addressed. You've been confusing two words, and thus using one where you should be using the other. Although this might be used for ironic effect, it could well be taken the wrong way in certain company. I provide the definitions (quoted from the Macquarie Dictionary) herein, for your information.
repository noun (plural -ries) 1. a receptacle or place where things are deposited, stored, or offered for sale, as a warehouse. 2. a place in which a dead body is deposited. 3. a person to whom something is entrusted or confided. [Latin]
suppository noun (plural -ries) a solid or encapsulated medicinal substance inserted into the rectum or vagina to be dissolved therein. [Late Latin, from Latin: placed under]
In the interests of better communication (and hygene), please memorise which is which. And if you didn't want this bit of advice, consider it a suppository.
Regards,
TFBW
[Ironic footnote: the co-worker in question later remarked to me that he "wasn't aware of the second definition of 'suppository' before". It's a bit of a worry. He's also in the habit of calling me "Greg" from time to time. I have no idea where he got that name from.]