Irregardless

ENGLISH WORDS THAT PEOPLE SAY AND USE WRONG

Wrong meaning: Regardless, without consideration of (or despite) the circumstances. Right meaning:There’s no correct meaning because “irregardless” is not a real word! The phrase “regardless of” is used the same way as you would say “even though” or “in spite of.” For example: Regardless of the definition being very clear, he still didn’t understand the word. “Irregardless,” on the other hand, is not actually a word. It was first used way back in the 1700s, possibly instead of the word “irrespective” (which does mean the same as “regardless,” but people rarely use it).

The “word” is used in speech to this day, even though it should mean the opposite (since the prefix ir- and the suffix -less are both negative). That makes it a double negative, just like “I won’t not eat the last cupcake” means you totally will. We think it’s confusing too, and that’s why it’s best to avoid this “word”!

ENTITLED Wrong meaning: The title of a book, TV show, etc. Right meaning: Having, or believing that you have, the right to something. When you buy a house, you’re entitled to it—you legally have the right to own the house. You can also be entitled to your opinion, since you have the right to speak your mind. Sometimes people can act entitled, if they act like they deserve special treatment. A book, on the other hand, is never entitled, it’s just titled! People often misuse this word by saying, “The best movie in the world is entitled ‘Troll 2.’”This is not only untrue, it’s the incorrect usage of the word. Books, movies, TV shows and anything else that has a title are “titled.”