DutchmenSport wrote:
I'd like to thank everyone for your posts. I didn't realize I'd stir up so much "energy" on this topic. Good discussion though, I appreciate every comment.
I have no problems with the use of the word "economical", "lowest price", "best value for my money", being "frugal", and shopping "smart". I agree everyone has a different life style, different budgets, and different tastes. That's what makes everything so interesting.
But, I will still say, it's the use of that word "cheap". And here's the best example I can provide.
In one post, the rant will be about "cheap China bomb tires". And in the next post, it will be about "cheap weight distribution systems."
If your definition of "cheap" simply means "economical", then ... well.... "Devils advocate here".... what's wrong with "inexpensive China Bomb tires."
NOW ... maybe you know why I have problems with the word "cheap!"
I totally understand being "economical", and looking for the best deal for your money... completely ... but "cheap?" Well ... Think about those China tire threads and you begin to see why I cringe every time I hear the word, "cheap" in reference to any other item we RVers use.
Consider this; that if you understand the real meaning of a word in all its' facets and uses, it's etymology (History)and so forth you wouldn't have a "problem" with the word.
But I think more accurately that you have a problem with the way some people USE the word.
Just because the word is used incorrectly or correctly in a different context doesn't mean it's real meaning has been changed.
Cheap and inexpensive are synonyms. They are virtually interchangeable in language.
I do admit that Cheap has, in American English, taken on this extra baggage of meaning "shoddy" or Poorly made. But no word is intrinsically bad.
But I do understand how the misuse of words or phrases can make one crazy...the the tendency nowadays to use the NOUN Gift as a VERB as in Gifted is one such.
