Using this, that, and those too often

[mw2530]

I realized this a few years ago, that I use the words "this" and "that" way to often when communicating. I even used both of them in my first sentence, lol! Often times I'm unable to come up with the real word to describe something so I have to use these generic words. This often occurs when talking about objects or things. For example, I may say that's pretty when referring to a Christmas tree with lights, rather than saying, that tree is pretty. Sure, substituting the word that for the actual word is perfectly normal at times. But I do it excessively. I think it is due to the fact that I have the image in my head and can picture it, but can't come up with the actual word off the cusp. My brain is not fast enough in this regard. I assume others know exactly what I am referring to because I see the image in my brain, but in reality sometimes they have know idea what I am referring to specifically. I remember my dad doing the same thing when I would work with him at times. It would be extremely frustrating, because I didn't know what he was referring to at times or what he was thinking. So I can certainly see how this could cause a lot of problems in communication and cause frustration for the other person.

 

[Kwickyfeet Icypaws]

Nothing kills a good idea, story, or joke quite like forgetting a common yet critical name or noun. It's akin to dressing a bride in a dress made of burlap.

In 6th grade I was giving a presentation, something about the US oil industry. I wanted to mention the state an event happened in, but only half the name showed up in my head. How does that happen - that should be enough to figure it out, right? What an insidious brain glitch.

So I left out the name of the state, doing fine otherwise. The teacher says "hold up, what state was that in?" I was uncommonly versed with geography, but all I could do was say "the one next to Louisiana, Oklahoma, and New Mexico..."

"Which one is that??" Giggles from the class. He could smell blood and this guy loved humiliating unpopular kids. Everyone was now paying full attention.

"The oil state. The cowboy state. The one on the border with Mexico... Lone star state..."

"Say it! Say the name!"

I could only think "Tex... Tex... Tex..."

"Well!?!" Class collectively leans forward in their chairs.

"Texaco," I said in defeat.

Everyone laughs and teacher adopts a heavy attitude of outrage and concern. "My God! Texas! Texas!! Imagine a state named Texaco!"

That was the first time I remember internally shrugging and accepting that such things happen to me and I can't do much about it.

 

[Tom]

Don't feel too bad. Some co-workers were amused that I thought the song went 'Oh... the yellow roads of Texas'

 

[Suzanne]

The bane of my husband's life with me. I point and try to explain, but the actual word is just missing at that moment.

There are other sentances I say that bemuses my husband, but right now, can't think what they are, which shows that it is just a part of how I start off some conversations.