Overused Words

Certain words seem to get used a great deal in conversations here. They are definitely words we use in conversation in the US, but not words that we use frequently throughout the day.

Indeed

This is used as a remark when one person describes a situation or event, and the second person needs to comment. For example, I could tell Alan, the guy who sits next to me, how it's no fun to make connecting flights, especially during winter with unpredictable weather, and he would be compelled to comment "Indeed." I think it's the equivalent of saying "OK" for us. It is usually accompanied with a knowing look and a nod of the head. I think it's associated with specific individuals, such as Alan, rather than everyone I work with. But I have heard others using the word since Alan showed up.

Brilliant

Now here's one I didn't expect, but have been hearing since I arrived in September. It's often used as a parting comment at the end of a conversation, and is meant as a compliment. Someone might be discussing a problem over the phone, and the person on the other end might offer a solution. The first one will sign off the phone with "Brilliant, cheers, bye" -- and the conversation will be suitably ended. I hear "brilliant" all the time around here. I suppose the US equivalent would be "great".

Right

This is mostly used at the beginning of a sentence, and it is followed by a pause and then another sentence. Someone will begin a conversation with "Right. Now here's what you do to make this Oracle transaction go through..." I don't know why they use this word, but it's so common that I am worried I will begin using it. Right. Like I would do that.
- posted by Tom Perkins @ 12/10/2003 06:59:00 PM