American accents. My phrase "slightly annoying" isn't cultural or contextual, or even geopolitical, it is Musical. I like some American accents, but others can sound very throat-constricted, horrible for singing. I find RP English from the 1950's annoying for the same reason - also some Aussie accents, and Estuary Essex (but the old rural Essex accent is lovely).
"Fewer / Less" - both are opposites of "more" in English, which may account for the confusion, and "Less" is easier to say. A shortcoming of the English language, as taught in the 1950's.
"Sic singers" (I almost typed sinners) - I agree it is ok when elided, but not when the BBC reader separates the words, German style(?). It suddenly started appearing on Radio4 a few years ago, as though standing instructions had been changed. Did anyone else notice this?
"Fewer / Less" - both are opposites of "more" in English, which may account for the confusion, and "Less" is easier to say. A shortcoming of the English language, as taught in the 1950's.
"Sic singers" (I almost typed sinners) - I agree it is ok when elided, but not when the BBC reader separates the words, German style(?). It suddenly started appearing on Radio4 a few years ago, as though standing instructions had been changed. Did anyone else notice this?
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