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Joseph
Does "fortnight" always carry the strict meaning of two weeks? I have encountered this word frequently in reading the classics; sometimes, the timelines are more of an approximation.
What about all underlined terms? Are they still commonly used in the same way nowadays? Thanks.
2023년 9월 29일 오후 10:23
답변 · 6
2
Hi Joseph,
• Fortnight: The term "fortnight" originates from the phrase "fourteen nights," signifying two weeks. In modern British English, "fortnight" and "fortnightly" are still commonly used to refer to a period of two weeks or something occurring every two weeks. In American English, the term "fortnight" is less commonly used. Instead, terms like "biweekly" are employed. However, it's worth noting that "biweekly" can be ambiguous, as it can mean both "twice a week" and "every two weeks" depending on the context and region. To avoid this ambiguity, "every other week" is often used to clearly indicate something happening once every two weeks.
• Taking the liberty: This phrase means to do something that might be considered presumptuous without first obtaining permission. It's a way of acknowledging an action that might be seen as overstepping, but done with good intentions. This phrase remains in use in modern English, especially in more formal or courteous contexts.
• Construe: In this context, "construe" refers to the act of translating or parsing a text, often in a classroom setting where students might be tasked with translating or interpreting a passage from another language. While this term is less common in everyday modern English, it might still appear in academic settings, especially related to language learning or literary analysis.
I hope this provides clarity on the terms in question!
2023년 9월 29일
1
"Fortnight" is usually a definite term. It it means period of fourteen days or two weeks. In US English, we understand the word but don't normally use it. In your example, I would take it literally--the magazine was published every two weeks.
"Have taken the liberty" is old-fashioned, formal, polite language. It means "I have done something without asking your permission; I hope you don't mind."
"The construe" is specific to the period of time and the institution. It has something to do with studying Latin. I think "to construe" a Latin sentence means to analyze its meaning precisely and carefully. "The construe" must have been some kind of classroom exercise that students hated. The "two boys" can waste the teacher's time and use up the time that should have been spent on "the construe."
2023년 9월 30일
so i from China
2023년 9월 29일
你好
2023년 9월 29일
아직도 답을 찾지 못하셨나요?
질문을 남겨보세요. 원어민이 도움을 줄 수 있을 거예요!
Joseph
언어 구사 능력
중국어(북경어), 중국어(광동어), 영어
학습 언어
중국어(광동어), 영어
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