Re: [tied] RE: idée fixe

--- On Mon, 6/9/08, Patrick Ryan <proto-language@...> wrote:

From: Patrick Ryan <proto-language@...>
Subject: Re: [tied] RE: idée fixe
To: cybalist@yahoogroups.com
Date: Monday, June 9, 2008, 4:22 PM









--- On Mon, 6/9/08, Patrick Ryan <proto-language@ msn.com> wrote:

It has been interesting seeing how list-members variously interpret idée
fixe.

Of course, the word is French, and has passed into probably every European
language with a slightly different nuance.

I can assure you all, however, that accusing someone of an idée fixe is used
to native English speakers to designate someone mentally deranged:

http://education. yahoo.com/ reference/ dictionary/ entry/idee+ fixe

It means not just a fixed idea but an idea held against evidence against it
or with complete lack of evidence.

Therefore, it is an aspersion against the person who holds it.

A strongly held idea is simply a conviction.

Patrick
GK: This is just your view what "idee fixe" means in English. Not
everyone shares it. You're beginning to have an "idee fixe" about the
meaning of "idee fixe" (:=))) . Relax.

***

Patrick:

AHD says "obsession".

To be accused of being obsessive is an insult, at least in my English.

***

****GK: My trusty old Webster defines "idee fixe" as "fixed idea". I agree. I don't particularly care about the opinions of those groups who have developed and are developing a new vocabulary of political correctness. Unfortunately some of their "accomplishments" have been translated into legal constraints. Usually preceded by moral constraints.I wouldn't want to contribute to the process. So I'll stick to my view about "idee fixe". And continue to criticize those "idees fixes" I think are wrong, whenever I feel like doing it.****