[Edited to say more what I wanted to say.]
I’m tired of the words “avid” and “voracious” being used so surprisingly often before the word “reader.” It’s a pet peeve of mine. It particularly surprises me because those adjective/noun pairings are so overused, I would expect that an actual avid/voracious reader would be just as sick of it as I am.
How’s that? Better?
If this was a facebook status, I would hit “like”.
Hee hee.
What if they’re an avid reader of airport bestsellers?
I think I missed something…
Just like hardly anything is ever DECIMATED (because it would only be reduced by 10%) versus OBLITERATED (which is clearly the more likely intended word since it means, you know, TOTALLY DESTROYED)?
Whimsy- When I was in college, each dorm chose their own faux-tough slogan. My dorm wanted to choose “We decimate.” I suggested that the back of the t-shirts should read “And you’re number 10.”
I actually think there are many MANY other cliches that are more overused.
I tend to think of myself as a ravenous reader. but, yes, i agree that the avid/voracious thing is a bit personal ad-y.
So if you read a lot you must avoid using cliches? That doesn’t even make any sense! It’s like saying if you walk a lot you must thereby not be a gardener. Two totally different things… People who read a lot are allowed to use cliches (and do).
Marie- Definitely you’re right. This is just the one that particularly chaps me.
Marian G- Your example doesn’t make sense, but I think what you’re trying to say is your last sentence. And sure they can! But people who really DO read a lot (as opposed to SAYING they do, or exaggerating how much they do) tend to avoid the descriptive words that are so overused everyone gets sick of them from reading them so often—and of course the words used to describe people who read a lot are particularly attention-getting to people who DO read a lot.
I see what your saying, but the people I know who have described themselves as avid or voracious readers, certainly are!
As someone who reads a lot…I’ve found that people who describe themselves as avid or voracious readers want you to think they read a lot- but when they find out how much you read they shut up, fast, and find someone else to tout their level of AWESOME to.
I find people who actually read a lot don’t talk about reading a lot. It’s just something you do and it’s normal to you, so why announce it? It’s not like you get a gold star sticker for reading at our age.
BUT, people like my mom, who do not enjoy reading, and are constantly amazed by me or my children asking for books, or asking if they can read to her when they visit- she would describe us as avid readers. Just because she thinks that’s a pretty fancy word.
You’re wrong, but then you often are.
Good point. I’m a desperate reader.
When I was 12, I stayed with my aunt in another state. She said that she had heard that I was an “avid reader” like her, and wanted to share her books with me–shelves and shelves of Harlequin romances.
Um…why are we discussing this? (Other than, you know, it’s YOUR blog and we’re just invading your personal space.) I’m with d e v a n: what’d I miss?
Ok. Ok. But what if I’m an avid and voracious EATER?
OOOOOR What if I were “verashous”?
No one missed anything; it’s just a vent about a small issue that bugs me when I see it again and Again and AGAIN. Seriously, I am not sure I have ever seen anyone call themselves a reader without using either the adjective “avid” or the adjective “voracious.” Aren’t people who read supposed to have ENHANCED VOCABULARIES?
I totally get where you are coming from! It’s like the people who say they don’t like fake people or drama but it’s always the fake, drama filled people who say those things!
I am kind of smiling imagining what finally pushed you over the edge on this issue…
I have a visual of you reading blogs and suddenly just throwing up your hands and yelling, “I can’t take it anymore!”
I’m totally an avid reader. Who’s lazy. And unimaginative.
Actually, on my blog, RIGHT NOW, I describe myself as an avid reader. And I am. If I were to list my top 10 passions, “books” would solidly make the list. In fact, I’m not sure I’ll ever be a Kindle user (unless I take to traveling a ton) because I love not only the reading, but the whole process: the feel of the book, the thumbing the pages, the re-reading the back when I get confused about something, peaking ahead when I’m bored at my current spot, thumbing through it again when I’m done with it and missing the people/characters…
And you are right, of course, that avid/voracious ARE over-used words. But they are comfortable words that I feel describe the fact that I read a ton, more than the average person. I feel like I can say “I’m an avid reader” and I get my point across w/o drawing attention to myself.
“I have a passion for books” or “I have an insatiable hunger for reading” seems melodramatic or begs for a comment. Especially when spoken. Does that make any sense? Sometimes over-used words are the easiest or most concise way…
Also, my rub? When people call their boy baby “my little man”. Eeek, eek, eek! It actually gives me the squigglies… (Obviously my issue…)
And now I’m laughing at CBHM’s comment, which wasn’t there when I started typing mine. YES, what she said, only in many fewer words!
Also, is Jane teasing? What’s up Jane? Why all the grump?
Swistle, my example wasn’t meant to make any sense, because I don’t think your rant makes sense! But, I enjoy reading your blog anyway, because I am an avid blog-reader. Who also happens to use overused phrases routinely! I suppose I am most confused because I enjoy reading your blog so very much, and was so pleased when you “came out” about your physical shape… And fir the most part it seemed as though few of your readers made any sort of judgment about you based upon what you divulged – and it seemed that felt good to you. So why get all judgy about something semi- intellectual? Frankly, that seems more petty and sad than anything I have read in a long time, so. Bummer I guess.
*hangs head in shame*
I totally do the “little man” thing.
I see now Swistle. Now I will think of this every time I hear one of those words. lol
I have used the word “avid” to describe my reading habits, but I seriously don’t think that shouts, “Hey! I’m a dumby with a lousy vocabulary who rarely reads anything!” That’s just silly. I’m with Marie Green. Also, just because I have or am “supposed to have” an advanced vocab from reading doesn’t mean I need to walk around speaking all flamboyantly about my reading habits. If nothing else, people who don’t read a lot, will at least understand what I mean by “avid.” Of course, you are entitled to your pet peeves, but I really don’t agree that using avid/voracious equals “I don’t read.”
Parkingathome’s comment is the one that made me laugh.
I wouldn’t call myself an avid or voracious reader because I kind of don’t know what that means. I read as much as I can manage, but I’m always afraid that if I brag about it, the person I’m talking to will be someone who reads twice as much (like Princess Nebraska) and I’ll feel silly.
cherylc
Marie- Yoops! I didn’t see that you’d described yourself that way! AWK!
Yes, “little man” is one of my icks, too. I see that a lot on eBay auctions. “Perfect for your little man!” “Your little man will look perfect in this!”
Theresa- I consider “avid” and “voracious” the flamboyant ways of describing it. Like people are SO PASSIONATE about books they’re almost EATING them. I think “I like to read” covers it better and more simply and LESS flamboyantly.
I’ve changed the part about it meaning people don’t read. I don’t really mean that part. It’s just a pet peeve that NO ONE seems to be able to say they read without using EITHER avid OR voracious to say it. Why those two words so much?
Devan- Aw, CRAP! I’ve never noticed you saying “little man”! AWK AWK DOUBLE AWK.
How about this: everyone should say whatever they want, never mind, I will stop blogging about pet peeves because I don’t mean them as harshly as they end up sounding.
I’m sorry it came across that way, Marian, and I’ve tried to change it. I have pet peeves just like everyone else does, that’s all.
And I’m not sure you read the comments section on that post about being plus-sized.
I see I missed the whole donnybrook, but I’m Steph and I like to read.
Fine, I’m an avaricious and rapacious reader. Better?
Not really that kind of reader here, I’m more of a grazer and baker about this blog, but… you know. I take what I can get. :)
Oh, Swistle! This whole comment thread is hilarious/horrifying! I only meant to discuss this in a friendly way- and your pet peeve didn’t bother or offend me AT ALL. But now it seems like a little bit of a NOT FRIENDLY DEBATE in which I’m taking you ON, and I’m soooo not! So, sorry about that. And the way you first stated it didn’t offend me either.
AND now I feel AWK about the “little man” stuff b/c of our very own Devan- she could say that all day long and it wouldn’t bug me b/c I already like her and her little tribe of boys (and a girl).
Sometimes the written word is tricky, yo. But Swistle readers should know that I consider Swistle a friend and would never be unkind to her (here or elsewhere) intentionally. Same with Devan. GAH.
That’s the cool thing about pet peeve’s. They are totally to each his/her own.
Some may consider me to be an avid reader…because they only read one book (Twilight) last year. When I was young, a stay at home mom, i’d read 15 Harlequins a week, and each and every newspaper and cereal box. Now, I’m not at home, nor as young, and I’ve vamped up my book selections, so much so my daughter says I’m kind of a book snob. It’s just that I don’t have that much time to read – so I want it to be GOOD. Still, I get your point.
We take the peeves and the comments with the intention in which they are written. Blog love to you! I read it avidly.
So if I were to say I’m an avid reader of our blog, would you send me hate mail? :)
I think my real problem is that some cliches are ‘good cliches’ to me. I LOVE the words ‘avid’ and ‘voracious’, partly due my love of the letter ‘v’ (and also ‘x’ and ‘z’). So I am inclined to use that particular cliche and not be annoyed by it.
(ps. Not offended over here.)
And I want to say that I found Marie’s comments CONSTRUCTIVE, which is kind of rare in the world of comments sections! I had overstated and MISstated what I meant, and her comments were appropriate and helpful and showed me what I needed to fix to say what I actually meant. MWAH, Marie.
I’ve been online way too much this weekend- but I wanted to say I enjoyed this post from the beginning, to now- and all the comments, too.
ahh, I get your point, and could see how it could become annoying. I guess, considering I’m not exactly surrounded by readers, avid or otherwise, it doesn’t bother me as much to hear it….because I so seldom do. LOL
P.S.- I hope you don’t stop blogging about your pet peeves. That’s what blogs are for and about aren’t they?
Ha, I made a whole freaking weeks long status update on FB about my pet peeves. They’re PET peeves! Your own personal peeves! On your blog! What is up with people?
Hmmm…when I was younger and had free time, I used to LOVE to read. More than “like” (“liking” to read just seems to be one or the other of like/dislike. I enjoyed reading more than that). I don’t think I ever was an “avid” reader although I think my mother used to describe me as such (as such…also hoity toity). I don’t use “little man” at all, but then again, I have no kids, nor do any of my close friends so there’s no opportunity to do so.
Also, my MIL says ‘little man’ about my son and it totally bugs me, but EVERYTHING she says bugs me. Ha!
I use “my little man” lots. I just say “I like to read” pretty much because I would feel ridiculous using avid or varacious. Pet peeves: incorrect use of “they’re” “there” or “their” and “your” or “you’re”. Also: “irregardless”.
You know, just in case anybody cares. =)
I have probably used “avid” to describe me as a reader. Why? Because nearly everyone is a reader. Everyone, unless you are illiterate, is technically “a reader”. When describing my other hobbies, I simply state I am a knitter or an animation buff, because not everyone knits and not everyone collects animation. But EVERYONE reads.
So, yes. I am “enthusiastic” when it comes to my books and as such “avid” aptly describes my attitude towards it. That is all, there is nothing more implied by that.
I suppose to avoid cliches, I will just simply state I am an “enthusiastic reader” from now on.
heee. man, you just can’t say ANYTHING without getting flayed these days, can you? perhaps you should stick to only relating stories about things your children do, without inserting any of your offensive OPINION here on your personal blog? because i’m VERY OFFENDED whenever you decide to talk about something – here on YOUR BLOG – that i don’t want to talk about. ;-)
@swistle and whimsy: you’re so timely on the decimate commentary. http://johnemcintyre.blogs
pot.com/2010/03/more-than-one-in-ten-is-ok.html
I told my husband the other day that I’m tired of hearing people say “out of the box” when discussing new ideas. That is my pet peeve, and he took offense because he likes the phrase. I guess pet peeves can be a touchy subject. :)
My pet peeve is when you see the word “woman” used in print when the word “female” should be used. It happens ALL of the time and drives me insane. For example, “woman chef wins award.” Would they have said “man chef wins award?” NO! It drives me crazy first of all because woman is a noun, and should not be used as an adjective. Secondly you get into the whole sexist issue (why do you have to identify the gender of the chef? You wouldn’t do it if it were a man.). I saw it constantly during the elections–Sarah Palin is the first woman vice presidential nominee…etc. Does any else care about this? Probably not. But I get you Swistle–avid and voracious aren’t particular pet peeves of mine, but I can see how that would bother you.
Lighten up people – This is Swistle’s outlet and she can say whatever she wants.
I don’t like the word MOIST followed by, well- anything.
You go Swistle!
I was not offended and thought this thread was pretty funny, actually.
Me too. I hate how people say things like “I literally died those shoes were so cute.” Um you didn’t.
We all read this blog for the swistle of it all. Pet peeves are like fingerprints, everyone’s are different. :)
Wow, this is quite the storm of commentary! Can I share something? My pet peeve is LOL. I freaking hate LOL. I especially hate when people preface it with a stupid comment and say LOL! Like, I hate you, you stupid whore LOL! JK! LMAO!
Also? When I was in grad school I did my thesis on gender differences (economics) and I had to rewrite it to say sex differences instead. That was sort of annoying, albeit correct.
A LOT better! :)
Barbara
I know. When I hear that someone is a voracious reader, I picture them eating lots and lots of books. Funny how you never hear that someone is a voracious TV watcher.
I’ve never said that about MYSELF but I’ve described others that way, I’m pretty sure. It’s funny that I never really thought about how often those words are used in front of ‘Reader’ but you’re so right about that.
I’ve also said, ‘Little Man,’ to describe my son, I’m almost positive.
And I write LOL, like ALL THE TIME. And OMG. AND LMAO.
I am EVERYONE’S pet peeve.
My biggest pet peeve right now is when a cashier uses gloves to handle the food and then KEEPS THEM ON to handle the money. As if the gloves are there TO PROTECT HIS HANDS. omfg. UGH.
I don’t ever call myself a “voracious reader”, but definitely an “avid reader”. I sort of love that phrase! Plus, with avid’s definition of “enthusiastic; passionate; longing eagerly; eager; greedy” — that’s exactly how I read! LOL.
But, we all have little pet peeves, so it doesn’t bother me that you posted this! I’m just chiming in because I like to comment, LOL! “Avid reader” over here — sorry, Swistle, dahling! ;-) LOL!
(Now, mind you, I really love to read chick-lit and fun, light novels more than the heavy crap that I don’t find entertaining — so I don’t think my vocabulary would be so grand based on my genres of choice!)
Moist…haha!
I prefer my “moist” to precede a “cake” and that is about all of the tolerance I hold for the word.
I find these comments very, very funny and wish that I knew most of you personally. I would like to have you over for red wine, chocolate, and general hilarity.
(not the Jane who said Swistle was wrong earlier)
Swistle, I hope you don’t feel you’ve been burned by offering up an opinion. I miss your musings when you don’t post.
Last night as I was reading John Irving’s “A Widow for One Year”, he described a reader as being “avid”. Too funny.
Again, I thought this post w/comment stream highly entertaining.