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