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English 1b3 Posted 15 years ago
Grammar

Redundant prepositional phrases following nouns

Is there a name for nouns that are often followed by redundant prepositional phrases? Alas the only example top of mind is the traditional meaning of the noun faggot--though there are many more that will hopefully spring to mind latter in conversation.

Faggot: a bundle of sticks or twigs, esp when bound together and used as fuel

This is the definition of the word faggot. Why is it that we often here a 'faggot of sticks,' when the word faggot already implies 'of sticks'?

Weird question, perhaps. Not uncommon from me, so I'm sure none are suprised.

Ta
  

Top answer

Hi, Why is it that we often (hear) here a '****** of sticks,' I know this meaning is in the dictionary, but in my whole life I can't remember ever hearing 'a ****** of sticks'. ( In case you don't know, the word '******' is also used as a highly, highly offensive term for a homosexual. For this reason, avoid using the word.

— Clive

  • Hi, Why is it that we often (hear) here a '****** of sticks,' I know this meaning is in the dictionary, but in my whole life I can't remember ever hearing 'a ****** of sticks'.
  • ( In case you don't know, the word '******' is also used as a highly, highly offensive term for a homosexual.
  • For this reason, avoid using the word.
  • ) Clive
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1 Answers
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Hi,

Why is it that we often (hear) here a '****** of sticks,'

I know this meaning is in the dictionary, but in my whole life I can't remember ever hearing 'a ****** of sticks'.

( In case you don't know, the word '******' is also use
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