Excoriation Pronunciation: Learn How to Say It!

Understanding excoriation disorder often begins with mastering excoriation pronunciation, a crucial first step in addressing this complex condition; the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association, identifies excoriation (skin-picking) disorder as a distinct mental health issue, thereby highlighting the importance of accurate terminology. For individuals seeking resources, the TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors provides support and information, especially on the nuances of conditions that many find difficult to articulate or research; speech synthesis tools like Forvo offer valuable audio pronunciations of medical terms such as "excoriation," assisting both professionals and patients in clear communication. Recognizing the role of dermatologists in diagnosing skin conditions associated with excoriation, correctly understanding excoriation pronunciation helps bridge communication gaps between patients and healthcare providers.

Image taken from the YouTube channel Julien Miquel , from the video titled How to Pronounce Excoriation? (CORRECTLY) .

Unlocking the Pronunciation of "Excoriation"

The English language, with its rich tapestry of borrowed words and evolving sounds, often presents pronunciation challenges. Among these, the term “excoriation” stands out as a particularly thorny example. This medical term, referring to the act of abrading or wearing off the skin, demands precise articulation, not only for clarity but also for professional credibility.

Defining "Excoriation" and its Context

Excoriation, derived from the Latin excoriare (to flay), describes a superficial skin injury resulting from scratching, rubbing, or picking. It's a term frequently encountered in medical, dermatological, and even psychological contexts.

In medicine, it describes a symptom or result of skin conditions.

Its usage extends beyond the clinical, sometimes metaphorically employed to depict harsh criticism or damaging verbal attacks.

The Imperative of Accurate Pronunciation

In professional and academic spheres, precise language is paramount. Mispronunciation, especially of technical terms, can undermine credibility, leading to miscommunication and potentially even misdiagnosis in medical settings.

Imagine a dermatologist mispronouncing “excoriation” during a patient consultation. It could erode patient confidence and create doubt regarding the physician's expertise.

In academic presentations, accurate pronunciation demonstrates command of the subject matter and respect for the audience. Conversely, frequent mispronunciations can distract listeners and detract from the overall impact of the presentation.

The issue goes beyond mere aesthetics. Clear communication in healthcare directly impacts patient safety and well-being.

Navigating the Pronunciation Landscape

Mastering the pronunciation of "excoriation" necessitates a multifaceted approach. It requires dissecting the word into its phonetic components, understanding the nuances of vowel and consonant sounds, and leveraging available resources.

This section serves as a foundational step, setting the stage for a detailed exploration of the phonetics of "excoriation." We will examine the role of dictionaries and online tools, and consider regional variations that impact pronunciation.

By understanding the building blocks of the word and applying practical techniques, individuals can confidently and accurately pronounce "excoriation," enhancing their communication skills and professional presence.

Decoding the Phonetic Building Blocks of "Excoriation"

[Unlocking the Pronunciation of "Excoriation" The English language, with its rich tapestry of borrowed words and evolving sounds, often presents pronunciation challenges. Among these, the term “excoriation” stands out as a particularly thorny example. This medical term, referring to the act of abrading or wearing off the skin, demands prec...]

To truly master the pronunciation of "excoriation," a meticulous dissection of its phonetic structure is paramount. We must move beyond simply hearing the word and delve into the precise sounds that compose it. This section undertakes that task, offering a detailed analysis of each phonetic component.

The IPA Transcription of "Excoriation"

The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) provides a standardized system for representing speech sounds. A widely accepted IPA transcription of "excoriation" is /ɪkˌskɔːriˈeɪʃən/. This transcription serves as our roadmap, guiding us through each sound with accuracy.

Understanding IPA is crucial. It is the universal language of phonetics, enabling consistent and precise communication about pronunciation across different languages and dialects.

Syllabic Analysis: A Sound-by-Sound Breakdown

Breaking down "excoriation" into its syllables is essential for grasping its rhythmic structure and individual sound components. The word naturally divides into five syllables: ex-co-ri-a-tion.

Syllable 1: ex

• Sounds: The first syllable, "ex," consists of two sounds: the vowel sound /ɪ/ as in "bit," and the consonant sound /k/ which is doubled due to the following syllable, and /s/.
• Consonant Articulation: The /k/ sound is a velar stop, produced by raising the back of the tongue to touch the soft palate, and the /s/ is an alveolar fricative, formed by forcing air through a narrow channel at the alveolar ridge.

Syllable 2: co

• Sounds: The second syllable, "co," contains the vowel sound /ɔː/ as in "caught." This is a back vowel, produced with rounded lips.
• Consonant Articulation: We don't have any single consonants to focus on here as the syllable only has the 'co' with the k sound affecting the sound produced.

Syllable 3: ri

• Sounds: The third syllable, "ri," consists of the consonant /r/ and the vowel /i/ as in "fee" (but slightly less emphasized).
• Consonant Articulation: The /r/ sound is an alveolar approximant, where the tongue approaches the alveolar ridge but doesn't create a complete closure.

Syllable 4: a

• Sounds: The fourth syllable, "a," contains the diphthong /eɪ/, a combination of two vowel sounds that glide smoothly from one to the other, like in "say."
• Diphthongs: Diphthongs require careful control of the tongue and mouth to ensure a smooth transition between the two vowel components.

Syllable 5: tion

• Sounds: The final syllable, "tion," is a complex one, containing the consonant cluster /ʃən/. This represents the "sh" sound followed by the schwa /ə/ (a neutral vowel sound) and the nasal consonant /n/.
• Consonant Articulation: The /ʃ/ sound is a postalveolar fricative, produced by raising the front of the tongue towards the area just behind the alveolar ridge.

Stress Placement and its Phonetic Implications

Stress in "excoriation" falls primarily on the fourth syllable: ex-co-ri- a-tion*. This stress placement significantly impacts the pronunciation.

The stressed syllable is typically louder, longer, and articulated with greater clarity. In contrast, unstressed syllables may undergo vowel reduction, becoming shorter and less distinct.

The stress on the 'a' dictates how we move from 'ri' to 'tion'.

Mastering Vowel Sounds in "Excoriation"

Having dissected the phonetic architecture of "excoriation," we now turn our attention to its crucial vowel components. These vowels, often nuanced and subject to regional variation, demand careful consideration for accurate pronunciation. We must approach each sound with a deliberate focus, ensuring that our articulation aligns with the accepted phonetic standards.

Identifying the Vowel Sounds

The word "excoriation" typically contains four distinct vowel sounds, each playing a vital role in its overall sound. While slight variations may occur, the standard pronunciation features the following:

• The 'e' in "ex-": Often represented by the IPA symbol /ɛ/, as in "bed."

• The 'o' in "cor-": Typically pronounced as /ɔ/, similar to the "aw" in "law."

• The 'i' in "ri-": Usually a diphthong /eɪ/, as in "day."

• The 'a' in "tion": Reduced to a schwa /ə/, the neutral vowel sound common in unstressed syllables, as in "sofa."

The Nuances of IPA Representation

Understanding the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is paramount for precise pronunciation. The IPA provides a standardized system for representing speech sounds, circumventing the ambiguities inherent in written language.

Each vowel sound is assigned a unique symbol, allowing for clear and consistent communication about pronunciation. Relying on the IPA ensures that we are all speaking the same phonetic language.

Accounting for Regional Variations

It is crucial to acknowledge that pronunciation is not monolithic. Regional accents and dialects inevitably introduce variations in vowel sounds.

For instance, the /ɔ/ in "cor-" might be pronounced differently depending on whether one speaks with a General American, British Received Pronunciation, or other regional accent. Awareness of these variations is key to avoiding prescriptive pronouncements and fostering linguistic inclusivity.

Practical Tips for Articulation

Achieving accurate vowel pronunciation requires conscious effort and attention to articulatory detail. Consider these practical tips:

• /ɛ/ as in "ex-": Relax your mouth and allow your jaw to drop slightly. The tongue should be relatively flat in the mouth. This is not a long "a" sound.

• /ɔ/ as in "cor-": Round your lips and lower your jaw. The back of your tongue should be slightly raised. Think of the shape your mouth makes when saying "caught" in many American dialects.

• /eɪ/ as in "ri-": This is a diphthong, meaning it involves a movement from one vowel sound to another. Start with a sound similar to the "a" in "father" and glide towards the "i" in "machine." Practice the transition smoothly.

• /ə/ as in "tion": Relax your mouth completely. This is the most neutral vowel sound. Avoid adding any tension or emphasis.

By focusing on these specific aspects of vowel articulation, you can significantly improve your pronunciation of "excoriation." Remember that consistent practice, coupled with a critical ear, is the key to mastery.

Conquering Consonant Sounds in "Excoriation"

Having dissected the phonetic architecture of "excoriation," we now turn our attention to its crucial consonant components. These consonants, playing critical roles in the word's crisp and precise sound, must be carefully mastered.

We must approach each sound with a deliberate focus on its articulation and phonetic properties.

Let us embark on a detailed exploration of the consonants that shape this complex word.

Identifying the Consonants in "Excoriation"

The word "excoriation" presents a diverse array of consonant sounds, each contributing uniquely to its overall pronunciation. These include:

• /k/ as in the hard "c" after the "ex-" prefix.
• /s/ appearing multiple times, shaping much of the word's core sound.
• /r/ which can vary in pronunciation depending on regional accents.
• /ʃ/ the 'sh' sound, gives the word its distinctive character.
• /n/ appearing at the end of the word, contributing a subtle nasal quality.

Understanding each consonant is the first step towards mastering the word's pronunciation.

Place of Articulation: Where the Sound is Formed

The place of articulation refers to the point in the vocal tract where the sound is produced. This crucial aspect defines the physical location where articulators (tongue, lips, teeth, etc.) interact to create distinct sounds.

Knowing this allows for targeted control and refinement of pronunciation.

For instance, the /k/ is a velar sound, meaning it is formed by the back of the tongue pressing against the soft palate (velum).

The /s/ is typically alveolar, created as air passes through a narrow channel formed by the tongue near the alveolar ridge just behind the upper teeth.

The /ʃ/ is postalveolar, with articulation occurring slightly further back than /s/.

The /n/ is also alveolar, but the airflow is directed through the nasal cavity instead of the oral cavity.

The /r/ can be complex, varying significantly from alveolar to retroflex articulations.

Manner of Articulation: How the Sound is Formed

The manner of articulation describes how the airflow is manipulated to produce a particular sound.

It defines the method and degree to which airflow is constricted or modified.

Understanding this aids in distinguishing sounds that may share similar places of articulation.

For instance, /k/ is a stop (or plosive), meaning airflow is completely blocked before being released.

The /s/ and /ʃ/ are fricatives, created by forcing air through a narrow channel, generating turbulence and a hissing sound.

The /n/ is a nasal, with air escaping through the nose due to a lowered velum.

The /r/ is commonly an approximant, where the articulators come close, but do not create significant friction.

Tackling Challenging Consonant Clusters

"Excoriation" includes the consonant cluster "/ɛks/" at its beginning, which might present a challenge for some.

This sequence requires precise coordination of articulators to ensure clarity.

To correctly pronounce this:

1. Start with the /ɛ/ vowel sound.
2. Quickly transition to the /k/ sound, ensuring the back of the tongue makes firm contact with the soft palate.
3. Immediately follow this with the /s/ sound, maintaining a steady airflow through the narrow channel in the mouth.

Careful practice, and attention to each component sound, helps ensure the sequence is smooth and articulate.

Leveraging Dictionaries for Pronunciation Guidance

Having dissected the phonetic architecture of "excoriation," we now turn our attention to its crucial consonant components. These consonants, playing critical roles in the word's crisp and precise sound, must be carefully mastered.

We must approach each sound with a deliberate focus on both the mechanics of articulation and the aural characteristics. To this end, high-quality dictionaries become indispensable tools. They offer phonetic transcriptions and, increasingly, audio pronunciations, providing a multi-sensory pathway to accuracy. This section will explore how to effectively navigate the world of dictionaries to conquer the pronunciation of "excoriation."

The Landscape of Dictionaries: A Typology

Not all dictionaries are created equal, especially when it comes to pronunciation. Understanding the different types available is the first step toward effective utilization.

General dictionaries, such as Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary or the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), aim to provide comprehensive coverage of a language. While they include pronunciation information, it is often presented in a condensed format.

Pronunciation dictionaries, on the other hand, specialize in phonetic detail. Daniel Jones' English Pronouncing Dictionary is a classic example. These resources offer multiple pronunciations for words, reflecting regional variations and subtle differences in speech.

Specialized dictionaries may focus on a particular field, such as medicine or law. These can be helpful for technical terms like "excoriation," providing pronunciations tailored to the specific context.

Deciphering the IPA: Unlocking Phonetic Secrets

The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is the gold standard for representing speech sounds. Dictionaries rely heavily on IPA transcriptions to convey precise pronunciation information.

Learning to read IPA is crucial for accurately pronouncing "excoriation." Each symbol corresponds to a unique sound, allowing you to understand exactly how the word is intended to be spoken.

Dictionaries typically provide a key or chart explaining the IPA symbols they use. Familiarize yourself with these symbols, paying particular attention to those that appear in the transcription of "excoriation."

Recommended Resources: Navigating the Dictionary Maze

Several reputable dictionaries offer excellent pronunciation guidance.

Merriam-Webster's online dictionary is a user-friendly resource with clear IPA transcriptions and audio pronunciations. It is a reliable starting point for most learners.

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) provides a more comprehensive treatment of pronunciation, including historical variations and regional accents. However, its depth may be overwhelming for some users.

For specialized medical terminology, consider using a medical dictionary that includes phonetic transcriptions. These dictionaries can be invaluable for ensuring accuracy in professional contexts.

The Allure and Limitations of Audio Pronunciations

Audio pronunciations are a valuable feature in many modern dictionaries. They allow you to hear the word spoken by a native speaker, providing an auditory model for your own pronunciation.

However, it's essential to be aware of the limitations of audio pronunciations.

Recordings may not always reflect the full range of acceptable pronunciations. They might be influenced by the speaker's accent or personal speaking style.

Moreover, relying solely on audio can hinder your ability to decode phonetic transcriptions and develop a deeper understanding of the sounds themselves. It’s crucial to combine audio examples with a careful study of the IPA.

Utilizing Online and Audio Resources for "Excoriation"

Leveraging dictionaries is a crucial step, but the digital age offers a plethora of additional resources to refine your pronunciation of "excoriation." This section delves into the effectiveness of various online and audio tools, providing a critical assessment to guide your practice.

Online Dictionaries with Audio Pronunciation: A First Stop

Many online dictionaries now feature audio pronunciations, offering a readily accessible way to hear the word spoken. Merriam-Webster, Oxford Learner's Dictionaries, and Collins Dictionary are reliable options.

These typically provide both American and British English pronunciations, allowing you to choose your preferred accent. However, it's crucial to be aware that even within these broad categories, subtle variations may exist.

Always listen carefully and compare pronunciations across different dictionaries to get a well-rounded understanding.

Pronunciation Apps: Are They Worth the Hype?

A multitude of pronunciation apps promise to improve articulation through interactive exercises and feedback. These apps often utilize speech recognition technology to assess your pronunciation accuracy.

While some apps can be helpful for identifying and correcting common errors, their effectiveness varies considerably. Look for apps that are developed by reputable language learning institutions or linguists.

Be wary of apps that rely solely on automated feedback, as these may not always accurately detect nuanced pronunciation issues.

Supplement app-based practice with other resources, such as listening to native speakers and seeking feedback from language partners.

Google Translate's Text-to-Speech: A Quick Check

Google Translate's text-to-speech function offers a convenient way to hear "excoriation" pronounced. Simply type the word into the translator and click the speaker icon.

While useful for a quick check, this tool has limitations. The pronunciation is generated by a computer algorithm and may not always sound entirely natural or reflect subtle variations in accent.

Consider it a supplementary tool rather than a definitive source of pronunciation guidance.

Speech Synthesizers: Proceed with Caution

Speech synthesizers, also known as text-to-speech (TTS) engines, can pronounce any written text. While readily available, using them to learn the nuances of a word like "excoriation" presents several challenges.

The artificial voice often lacks the subtle variations in intonation and stress that characterize natural speech. The flat, emotionless delivery can make it difficult to internalize the rhythm and flow of the word.

Furthermore, synthesized speech may not accurately reproduce certain phonetic features, such as subtle vowel variations or the precise articulation of consonant clusters.

Therefore, relying solely on speech synthesizers for pronunciation practice is not recommended. They can be a useful supplement, but should not replace authentic audio from native speakers.

Seeking Expert Advice: Consulting Linguists and Speech Therapists

Utilizing online and audio resources can be incredibly helpful, but some pronunciation challenges require a more personalized approach. For persistent difficulties with a word as complex as "excoriation," seeking the guidance of language professionals like linguists and speech therapists can prove invaluable. This section explores their respective roles and provides resources for connecting with these experts.

The Authoritative Role of Linguists in Pronunciation

Linguists are the scholars of language. They possess a deep understanding of phonetics, phonology, and the intricate systems that govern speech. Their expertise extends beyond simple pronunciation; they can explain the why behind the how of language.

They can provide authoritative advice on the accepted pronunciation of "excoriation," considering factors such as regional variations and evolving language trends. Moreover, linguists can offer detailed explanations of phonetic transcriptions and address nuanced questions about articulation that general resources might overlook.

Consider, for instance, the subtle differences in vowel sounds across dialects. A linguist can pinpoint the exact vowel sound that aligns with a specific accent, providing clarity and preventing misinterpretations.

Addressing Articulation with Speech Therapists

While linguists focus on the broader aspects of language, speech therapists specialize in addressing articulation difficulties. If consistently struggling to produce specific sounds within "excoriation," such as the initial "ex-" cluster or the "sh" sound, a speech therapist can diagnose the underlying issue and develop a targeted intervention plan.

Speech therapy often involves exercises to strengthen the muscles involved in speech, improve breath control, and refine the coordination of articulators like the tongue, lips, and jaw. Speech therapists can also provide visual and tactile cues to help individuals better understand and replicate the correct mouth movements for specific sounds.

They can also address speech impediments and any other complex and underlying biological and or psychological factors in relation to difficulty producing language patterns.

Resources for Finding Qualified Professionals

Finding the right language professional requires careful consideration. For linguists, a good starting point is to consult university linguistics departments. Many departments maintain directories of faculty members and their areas of expertise. Professional organizations such as the Linguistic Society of America (LSA) may also offer resources for locating qualified linguists.

For speech therapists, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is a leading resource. ASHA provides a "Find a Professional" tool on its website, allowing users to search for certified speech-language pathologists in their area.

It's crucial to verify the credentials and experience of any linguist or speech therapist before engaging their services. Look for professionals with relevant certifications and a proven track record of helping individuals improve their pronunciation skills.

Seeking expert advice represents a proactive step towards mastering the pronunciation of "excoriation." By leveraging the knowledge and skills of linguists and speech therapists, you can overcome persistent challenges and achieve clear, confident articulation.

Understanding Regional Variations and Rhoticity

Utilizing online and audio resources can be incredibly helpful, but some pronunciation challenges require a more personalized approach. For persistent difficulties with a word as complex as "excoriation," a nuanced understanding of regional variations is essential. Accents significantly influence pronunciation, and one of the most prominent factors is rhoticity, the presence or absence of pronounced 'r' sounds.

Rhoticity: The Pronounced 'R'

Rhoticity refers to the pronunciation of the /r/ sound after a vowel in words. Accents are classified as either rhotic or non-rhotic, depending on whether they consistently pronounce this 'r' sound.

Rhotic accents, common in North America (particularly in the Midwest and parts of Canada), Scotland, and Ireland, pronounce the /r/ sound in words like "car," "bird," and "excoriation," regardless of its position.

Conversely, non-rhotic accents, prevalent in England (especially Received Pronunciation), Australia, New Zealand, and parts of the Southern United States, often drop the /r/ sound after a vowel, pronouncing "car" as "cah."

The Impact of Rhoticity on "Excoriation"

Rhoticity directly affects the pronunciation of "excoriation." In rhotic accents, the 'r' in the fourth syllable (-ri-) is clearly articulated.

However, in non-rhotic accents, the 'r' may be omitted or significantly softened, altering the sound of the word.

This difference is crucial for accurate pronunciation and can impact comprehension, especially in formal or professional settings.

Regional Variations in "Excoriation": Beyond Rhoticity

Beyond rhoticity, other regional variations can influence the pronunciation of "excoriation":

• Vowel Sounds: The pronunciation of vowels, particularly the 'o' in the second syllable (ex-co-), can vary significantly. In some accents, it may sound closer to a short 'ah' sound (/ɑ/), while in others, it may be a more rounded 'oh' sound (/oʊ/).

• Syllable Stress: While the primary stress typically falls on the fourth syllable (-a-), some regional accents might subtly shift the stress or place secondary stress on another syllable.

• Consonant Articulation: While less pronounced than vowel variations, subtle differences in the articulation of consonants, such as the initial 'ex-' sound, can exist across regions. For example, aspiration of the 'k' after the 's' in "excoriation" may vary.

Examples of Regional Pronunciation Differences

Consider these examples to illustrate how regional accents affect the pronunciation of "excoriation":

• General American (Rhotic): /ɛkˌskɔːriˈeɪʃən/ (clear articulation of all 'r' sounds)

• Received Pronunciation (Non-Rhotic): /ɛkˌskɔːriˈeɪʃ(ə)n/ (omission or softening of the 'r' sound after the vowel in the fourth syllable)

• Southern American English (Non-Rhotic or Weakly Rhotic): Similar to Received Pronunciation but may exhibit some degree of 'r' vocalization.

Understanding these regional nuances is essential for effective communication and for appreciating the diversity of spoken language. Recognizing that variations are natural and valid is the first step toward mastering your pronunciation and adapting to different linguistic environments.

Deep Dive: Advanced Phonetic Analysis Resources

Understanding Regional Variations and Rhoticity Utilizing online and audio resources can be incredibly helpful, but some pronunciation challenges require a more personalized approach. For persistent difficulties with a word as complex as "excoriation," a nuanced understanding of regional variations is essential. Accents significantly influence phonetic realization, and consulting advanced phonetic analysis resources can offer a deeper, research-backed perspective.

Locating University Linguistics Departments

University linguistics departments serve as invaluable repositories of phonetic expertise. Identifying these departments is typically straightforward:

Start with a targeted online search using phrases like "top linguistics programs," "phonetics research universities," or "[your region/country] linguistics departments."

Major universities usually feature a dedicated "Department of Linguistics" or a related program within their humanities or social sciences faculties.

Browse university websites, specifically those known for their strong humanities programs. These departments often maintain publicly accessible websites containing faculty profiles, research publications, and even phonetic databases.

Unearthing Phonetic Analysis Resources

Once you've located a university linguistics department, the next step is to explore the available resources. These can vary considerably but often include:

Research papers: Faculty and graduate students frequently publish research on phonetics and phonology. These papers may contain detailed acoustic analyses of specific sounds or words, including "excoriation." Search departmental publications or use academic databases like JSTOR or Google Scholar.

Pronunciation guides: Some departments create pronunciation guides for specific languages or regional dialects. While a guide dedicated solely to "excoriation" is unlikely, resources focusing on English phonetics can provide broader insights into the individual sounds within the word.

Phonetic databases: Certain universities maintain online databases of recorded speech, with phonetic transcriptions. These databases allow you to hear how different speakers pronounce words, aiding in comparative analysis.

Software and tools: Some linguistics departments develop or distribute phonetic analysis software, often free for academic or research purposes. These tools can help you visualize the acoustic properties of speech sounds.

Examples of Universities and Their Resources

Several universities boast exceptional linguistics programs and provide valuable online resources.

The University of California, Berkeley, for example, has a distinguished linguistics department with extensive publications on phonetics and phonology. Their website offers access to faculty research and potentially, information on ongoing phonetic studies.

UCLA also maintains a strong linguistics department. Exploring their faculty profiles and publication lists may reveal relevant phonetic analyses or resources.

The University of Oxford has a renowned phonetics laboratory. Its website provides access to research projects and potentially, online pronunciation guides relevant to understanding the phonetic components of "excoriation."

These are just a few examples. By exploring the websites of leading linguistics departments, you can access a wealth of advanced phonetic analysis resources that can illuminate the intricacies of "excoriation" pronunciation. Remember to focus on resources related to general English phonetics initially, and then narrow your search for specific analyses if available.

Video: Excoriation Pronunciation: Learn How to Say It!

Play Video

So, there you have it! Hopefully, you're feeling much more confident about your excoriation pronunciation. Don't be afraid to practice and even have a little fun with it. Now go forth and impress your friends (or your dermatologist!) with your newfound linguistic prowess.