Andrew Dunbar wrote:

>
> --- "Ph. D." <phild@...> wrote: > Mark E. Shoulson
> wrote:
> > >
> > > unnamed vs unaimed
> > > bookcase vs bookie
> > > rat-trap vs ratty
> >
> >
> > Some English speakers just don't get it. All over
> > southeastern Michigan, new office buildings are
> > given names such as "Green Oaks Officenter."
> > The last word is intended to be read as "Office
> > Center." Many bank holding companies have
> > added "Bancorp" to their names. Again, this is
> > intended to be read "Bank Corp."
> >
> > I find this very annoying.
>
> They do this so they can trademark the new word, not
> just to annoy you (:
> I myself work in a "beachouse" - and yes the word is
> registered.

But it's not a unique usage. Every office building built
in the last five years in the Detroit area has "officenter"
as part of its name. I used to work in the Galeria Officenter.
Across the street was the Twin Oaks Officenter, and
down the street was the Highland Officenter. I think it's
more a matter of copying by people who have no idea
that it does not reflect the pronunciation.

--Ph. D.