Date: Fri, 3 Feb 1995 16:05:12 -0800

From: "Joseph B. Monda" monda[AT SYMBOL GOES HERE]SEATTLEU.EDU

Subject: Re: 3 Lexicographic Queries



On Fri, 3 Feb 1995, Orin Hargraves wrote:



I would appreciate comments on any of the following; consulting American

dictionaries has proved either unhelpful or contrary to my instincts:



BUM STEER: Does it apply only to advice and information, or can it be material

(e.g., His new car/girlfriend turned out to be a bum steer).



I have heard it only in reference to information. "He gave me a bum

steer on that investment" or the like. Wrong information.





CAKEWALK: I remember this to be a sort of glorified musical chairs activity with

cakes as prizes, typically played at a school or church function; dictionaries

call it a dance competition. What do you think it is?



I've heard it applied to a very easy task. "He won in a cakewalk"



DRAFT vt: The lady at the YMCA in Hanover PA tells me that she'll "draft me" or

"draft my account", meaning that the Y will collect my dues monthly by automatic

payment from my checking account. Is this standard American usage? Do we have

fixed terms for what Brits call standing order and direct debit?



I haven't heard it used in this way, only as applied to forced enlistment

(even in things other than the military)



Joseph B. Monda email: monda[AT SYMBOL GOES HERE]seattleu.edu

smail: English Department Seattle University

Seattle WA 98122