NationStates Jolt Archive

The hell? I'm not a Marx Brother...oh, wait, that was Zeppo, never mind.

I think you're going to have to explain that one.

Seppo is short for Septic Tank which is ryming slang for Yank. And yes outside of America it refers to people from the USA.

Zomg, but the dictionaries are lying!11!!!11 USian IS a word, and it's so much better than American! Because people get confused by that term all the time!

Heh, maybe we would then.

First off, I have to say that this thread makes me lulz....I seem to be one of the few people who really doesn't give a flying fuck. (On a side-note, since we're dealing with nonsensical terms, what in the hell is flying fuck supposed to mean?) Personally, I think USian looks, and sounds silly. But in a way that makes me chuckle, and wonder who the hell thought it up. I always have, and always will, refer to myself as American. But, thats because that phrase is what I grew up with, and its what everyone around here says. Hell, I'd never even heard the term before reading this thread.

The only issue I have with USian (and its more a fond day-dream than an issue) as that if it follows a wierd specefic path, it will erupt into civil war. American gives a sense of unity. We're the America. You know, the one that doesn't have the rest of North America because theres nothing we really want? Yes, that one. But, if we start saying, USian, they'll asking, ah, which state? To which, I would reply Idahoan. (Another side-note here. Noone in my state is really quite sure what to refer to ourselves as. Probably why we use American) Now that we're all from seperate states rather than just America, we'll get pissed at each other for some reason, and become like Feudal Europe. (We'll invade Montana and Wyoming...hehe)


Also, please don't anyone take that seriously. Just a (failed) attempt at getting laughs.

Seppo is short for Septic Tank which is ryming slang for Yank. And yes outside of America it refers to people from the USA.
Isn't it Aussie slang from WWII? I seem to recall something about that's where it came from.

Isn't it Aussie slang from WWII? I seem to recall something about that's where it came from.

No. It's cockney - allegedly.

Just like 'trouble' means wife. Syrup means wig, and so forth.

Another side-note here. Noone in my state is really quite sure what to refer to ourselves as.

'hoes

'hoes

Now thats not nice....:(

Isn't it Aussie slang from WWII? I seem to recall something about that's where it came from.

Well it is used here, but then so to is a lot of Cockney slang due to the English influence so maybe it did come about in Australia. I don't know how big it is used elsewhere.

No. It's cockney - allegedly.

Just like 'trouble' means wife. Syrup means wig, and so forth.

Actually it is trouble and strife.

War, The economy going to shit, and trying to avoid taxes. Oh no we are going to debate what we call Yanks officially. What Yanks are called is clearly more important.

Now thats not nice....:(

i'm allowed, as i have a degree from one of your state's fine institutions of higher education.

actually, something like 93% of people that have ever been in idaho post here. kinda weird.

edit: now that i think of it, TCT was here earlier, so we can amend that to "something like 93% of people that have ever been in idaho have posted in this thread"

We need a break from the potatoes you see....

Yes...our...excellent colleges.

i'm allowed, as i have a degree from one of your state's fine institutions of higher education.

actually, something like 93% of people that have ever been in idaho post here. kinda weird.
Don't look at me, I was in Idaho for all of 2 minutes because the road to the lake went over the border on a corner. :tongue:

Don't look at me, I was in Idaho for all of 2 minutes because the road to the lake went over the border on a corner. :tongue:

Thats where most of our tourism comes from.


Anyays, to give some point to this post, is there anyone else who thinks the whole thread is ridiculous?

Thats where most of our tourism comes from.


Anyays, to give some point to this post, is there anyone else who thinks the whole thread is ridiculous?This thread is the epitome of NSG. Beating a dead horse until its children say uncle.

Thats where most of our tourism comes from.


Anyays, to give some point to this post, is there anyone else who thinks the whole thread is ridiculous?

well its the thread with the least amount of sourcing required.

This thread is the epitome of NSG. Beating a dead horse until its children say uncle.

Ain't it great?

Like many people have noticed, we're not the only country called the "United States," but we ARE the only country with the word "America" in the name. "American" is therefore an appropriate demonym. The whole thing is an internet tempest in a teapot - we'll always be called "Americans."

Actually it is trouble and strife.

Yeah, but nobody completes the rhyme for that dinner.

Seppo is short for Septic Tank which is ryming slang for Yank. And yes outside of America it refers to people from the USA.

I see. As for the rest, you get a pass because it's well known that all foreigners are mental to one degree or another, so y'all can't rightly be expected to use 'Yankee' correctly.

Actually it is trouble and strife.

You're both right. It's characteristic of Cockney slang that a rhyming phrase is often cut short. So "Me ol' mate" --> "me ol' china plate" -->"me ol' china". Hence, "wife" --> "trouble and strife" --> "trouble".

(On a side-note, since we're dealing with nonsensical terms, what in the hell is flying fuck supposed to mean?)

It's a Kurt Vonnegut quote. In its original glory, it's spoken with all due respect to a President of the United States, thusly: "Why don't you go take a flying fuck at a rolling doughnut? Why don't you take a flying fuck at the moooooooon?"

I had to look this up, though. I thought it was Robert Heinlein.

But it is a good example of why certain forms of language should be lovingly reserved, not squandered in everyday use. I have used this particular line only once in my entire life, and the reaction of the soon-to-be-ex boss totally repaid me for all the days I didn't use it.

And now I know....

War, The economy going to shit, and trying to avoid taxes. Oh no we are going to debate what we call Yanks officially. What Yanks are called is clearly more important.

Given that my country is the direct cause of the current financial disaster, I'd say you're more right than you'd imagine.

And now I know....

My work here is done. I have brought enlightenment to the masses. :tongue:

And now I know....

And knowing is half the battle!

WooT!!

And knowing is half the battle!

So whats next? Finding a random person in the street you can walk up and say flying fuck, and not have them be pissed?

It's a Kurt Vonnegut quote. In its original glory, it's spoken with all due respect to a President of the United States, thusly: "Why don't you go take a flying fuck at a rolling doughnut? Why don't you take a flying fuck at the moooooooon?"
.

Vonnegut got it from a poor translation of a Kama sutra position.

Buu wrong. It's the American Embassy here in Japan. I should know, I've been there and whadda know, the street corner says American Embassy.
You mean that the US embassy (http://tokyo.usembassy.gov/) in Japan is officially called the American Embassy?

The problem with the term "USian" is twofold.


It attempts to turn an abbreviation (worse, part of an abbreviation) into a word.
Why is that problematic? In principle?

USA stands for United States of America. Note the word "of". It is of America, and thus American.
[/LIST]
So "American" is better, when it just takes the least used part of the official name?

And your conclusion is flawed. See the thread. It's the United States that happens to be in America - that doesn't translate to be "America", it translates to be "The United States", as per how the government uses it. "America" is, however, what the country has become commonly known as. But not for the reasons you outline.

No-one suggests "UKian" for my corner of the world, despite the fact that "British" is not strictly geographically accurate. This is because the idea of such a nomenclature is preposterous.
Lots of people are suggesting "English" though...

Also, as a side note, most of those outside the USA but in the Americas do not consider themselves "American". "Latin American", sure. "South American", yup. "Central American", fine. But never simply "American". The Americas are too varied a place to be under a single banner term...otherwise we'd never have a North America and South America.
By that logic, and considering the differences between the states, you could say that "America" (the country) is too varied a place to be placed under a single banner term.

And as have been pointed out, some don't view the continent as divided.

Except for the long form and one of the abbreviations. But then considering we have SCOTUS POTUS just goes on to show typical American arrogance that they are the only United States.
Indeed, you can find "The United States of America", and you will find only "the United States", but you won't find simply "America".

And as have been pointed out, some don't view the continent as divided.

And we have not gone the other way either yet.
The only people allowed to call themselves Americans are the ones living here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/America,_Netherlands) ;)

Of course, "Américans" and "Amerikans" also exist following that reasoning ;)

-snip -

Go to the national park service, look up civil war.

It's a Kurt Vonnegut quote. In its original glory, it's spoken with all due respect to a President of the United States, thusly: "Why don't you go take a flying fuck at a rolling doughnut? Why don't you take a flying fuck at the moooooooon?"

I had to look this up, though. I thought it was Robert Heinlein.

But it is a good example of why certain forms of language should be lovingly reserved, not squandered in everyday use. I have used this particular line only once in my entire life, and the reaction of the soon-to-be-ex boss totally repaid me for all the days I didn't use it.

Flying fuck goes back to at least 1845 and refers to having sex on a horse - it is mentioned and illustrated in Pretty Little Games for Young Ladies and Gentlemen by Thomas Rowlandson. Accompanied by this delightful snippet of poetry

Well mounted on a mettled steed
Famed for his strength as well as speed
Corinna and her favorite buck
Are pleas’d to have a flying fuck.

You mean that the US embassy (http://tokyo.usembassy.gov/) in Japan is officially called the American Embassy?
When I call them, they say "American Embassy" and the official street corner that it is on (Given that Japan doesn't bother to name streets most of the time) says American Embassy.

Yeah, but nobody completes the rhyme for that dinner.

Yeah I know that is true, but I don't like that personally because it takes away the ryming aspect.

And as have been pointed out, some don't view the continent as divided.

What continent? I thought we were talking about the Americas? Both North America and South America those two continents.

:p
And where does the term "Ami" come from . . . ???;)

I could say it's French for "friends". :tongue:;):D

Flying fuck goes back to at least 1845 and refers to having sex on a horse - it is mentioned and illustrated in Pretty Little Games for Young Ladies and Gentlemen by Thomas Rowlandson. Accompanied by this delightful snippet of poetry

I bow to greater erudition. I'm not even going to try to check it, because

(a) I trust you implicitly
(b) if it's not true, it should be, and
(c) Rowlandson! The great Regency caricaturist, that Rowlandson? Then maybe I'd better not look it up, or the Great Wall of Australia will fall on my IP.:tongue:

Go to the national park service, look up civil war.
You mean the civil war in the United States, the fight between the Confederate States of America and the Union / Federal government of the United States?

When I call them, they say "American Embassy" and the official street corner that it is on (Given that Japan doesn't bother to name streets most of the time) says American Embassy.
Next time, ask them what their official name is, and if they say "American" ask them why their website says "U.S. Embassy in Japan" and "U.S. Embassy in Tokyo", one of the "U.S. missions around the world" that represents the "U.S. Government". If they present bewilderment, ask to talk to John Thomas Schieffer, the "27th U.S. Ambassador to Japan". Tell him Bob sent you! :wink:

What continent? I thought we were talking about the Americas? Both North America and South America those two continents.
Sure it's not one continent? Is that an objective truth, or a question of choice of definitions?

The six-continent combined-America model is taught in Latin America, Iran and some parts of Europe including Greece, Portugal and Spain.
See also the five-continent (olympic logo-style) and four-continent models (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continent#Number_of_continents)
In Spanish, América is the name of a region considered a single continent composed of the subcontinents of Sudamérica and Norteamérica, the land bridge of Centroamérica, and the islands of the Antillas.
In Portuguese, the word americano refers to the whole of the Americas.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Americas#America.2FAmericas

Snafturi, random question but can you speak Norwegian yet? And what do you speak? Bokmal?
I'm actually speaking it pretty well. I need to build my vocabulary though, but I'm comfortable speaking it and can be understood. I have a hard time following an adult movie, but not a kids movie. Bokmål is what I'm learning, fortunately. Besides a two week trip to the west, I haven't had to be bothered with the evil that is nynorsk.

TG me the results. I am honestly curious now.
Remind me if I forget.

and I can't speak it. :(
Terrorist.

Aloha and enjoy your trip.
Thanks.:) I certainly shall.

No, it's not. Far from it.
Yeah, I forgot a rather important phrase. Non-English language. That's what happens when I'm allowed on the internet after midnight. Something like half the US states have English as an official language.

Isn't Spanish also an official language in a few states?
Nei.

If you insist. We'd prefer Netherlandic or Netherlandian, i imagine (can't speak for all my fellow Netherlandians).
I just think Nether People makes you all sound really bad ass.


In Japan. You do realize there are more than two countries in the world. In fact, I think there might be more than 20 or 30. Maybe even 32.
32? Are you high? There's like five countries tops.
Everyone I know doesn't teach English in Japan. I've checked with all of them.
I almost ruined my Macbook by spitting Coke on it when I read this.:fluffle:

Sure it's not one continent? Is that an objective truth, or a question of choice of definitions?

Did you see a question mark in my post?

But then it does depend on what we use to define it? The link you gave also says that some people think that Oceania is a continent rather than a region, and should be used instead of the actual continent Australia. But even that first link contradicts each itself.

From Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continent#Number_of_continents

From the 1950s, most United States geographers divided America in two[50] — consistent with modern understanding of geology and plate tectonics.

All we could just keep up with old understanding of the world,you know the same as the sun revolves around the Earth.

Did you see a question mark in my post?

But then it does depend on what we use to define it? The link you gave also says that some people think that Oceania is a continent rather than a region, and should be used instead of the actual continent Australia. But even that first link contradicts each itself.

From Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continent#Number_of_continents


All we could just keep up with old understanding of the world,you know the same as the sun revolves around the Earth.

All I'm saying is that the divisions of the continents is up for debates, and nothing set in stone in any way. And some don't view the American continent as divided. Same as how Afro-Eurasia could be divided up into Africa, Europe and Asia, but could also be viewed as Africa and Eurasia (consistent with modern understanding of geology and plate tectonics), or it could be viewed as one - even if someone surely would claim that Afro-Eurasia (or simply Eurasia, for that matter) is too varied a place to be under a single banner term.

Did you see a question mark in my post?

But then it does depend on what we use to define it? The link you gave also says that some people think that Oceania is a continent rather than a region, and should be used instead of the actual continent Australia. But even that first link contradicts each itself.

From Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continent#Number_of_continents



All we could just keep up with old understanding of the world,you know the same as the sun revolves around the Earth.
United States Geographers is the key phrase there.

In Europe and other parts of the world, many students are taught of six continents, where North and South America are combined to form a single continent of America. Thus, these six continents are Africa, America, Antarctica, Asia, Australia, and Europe.
http://geography.about.com/od/learnabouttheearth/qt/qzcontinents.htm

South America is another one of those places where they're taught there's only six continents.

I agree it's silly, and if one were to combine the Americas it seems to logically follow they'd combine Europe and Asia (and maybe even Africa). But it's not the standard world-wide definition.

(c) Rowlandson! The great Regency caricaturist, that Rowlandson? Then maybe I'd better not look it up, or the Great Wall of Australia will fall on my IP.:tongue:
[/LIST]

That's the fellow - not exactly work friendly or pg-13

All I'm saying is that the divisions of the continents is up for debates, and nothing set in stone in any way. And some don't view the American continent as divided. Same as how Afro-Eurasia could be divided up into Africa, Europe and Asia, but could also be viewed as Africa and Eurasia (consistent with modern understanding of geology and plate tectonics), or it could be viewed as one - even if someone surely would claim that Afro-Eurasia (or simply Eurasia, for that matter) is too varied a place to be under a single banner term.

Fair enough then, and I clicked on this thinking great I have to go into some big debate but since we are both in a similar agreement I don't have to yay, I get to sleep early tonight. :p Yes it can be up for debate and really depends I suppose on what definitions people use. But I'll be damned if I let people get away with using Oceania :p

That's true we could, but then why would be looking at the people and culture of those people on the continent to define a geographic issue?

Fair enough then, and I clicked on this thinking great I have to go into some big debate but since we are both in a similar agreement I don't have to yay, I get to sleep early tonight. :p Yes it can be up for debate and really depends I suppose on what definitions people use. But I'll be damned if I let people get away with using Oceania :p
:tongue:

Sleep well, sir. You have earned it ;)

That's true we could, but then why would be looking at the people and culture of those people on the continent to define a geographic issue?
That was kinda my thought as well, when I originally responded to this:

Also, as a side note, most of those outside the USA but in the Americas do not consider themselves "American". "Latin American", sure. "South American", yup. "Central American", fine. But never simply "American". The Americas are too varied a place to be under a single banner term...otherwise we'd never have a North America and South America.

But yeah, we're in agreement I think :wink:

:tongue:

Sleep well, sir. You have earned it ;)


That was kinda my thought as well, when I originally responded to this:

But yeah, we're in agreement I think :wink:

Yes indeed we are, though I will continue to use with what I was taught and is still considered 'true' anyway. Goodnight to you good sir.

*Sleeps* :)

language does not work that way
Buggerit. Buggerit. Millennium shrimp and hand. Daisy Free Soviets toast pegged.

Of course not. Dictionaries are completely useless. Language means whatever you want it to mean.

Thinking Brain Dog (http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/162272/dictionary)

And knowing is half the battle!

G.I. Joe!

Buggerit. Buggerit. Millennium shrimp and hand. Daisy Free Soviets toast pegged.

Of course not. Dictionaries are completely useless. Language means whatever you want it to mean.

Thinking Brain Dog (http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/162272/dictionary)

are you honestly confused about the relationship between a set of morphemes being a word and a word being found in a dictionary? or are you just playing it up so we can make this thread even more ridiculous?

United States Geographers is the key phrase there.


http://geography.about.com/od/learnabouttheearth/qt/qzcontinents.htm

South America is another one of those places where they're taught there's only six continents.

I agree it's silly, and if one were to combine the Americas it seems to logically follow they'd combine Europe and Asia (and maybe even Africa). But it's not the standard world-wide definition.

There is also this point from Wiki:

The seven-continent model is usually taught in Western Europe, Northern Europe, Central Europe, Southeastern Europe, China and most English-speaking countries. The six-continent combined-Eurasia model is preferred by the geographic community, Russia, Eastern Europe, and Japan. The six-continent combined-America model is taught in Latin America, Iran and some parts of Europe including Greece, Portugal and Spain. This model may be taught to include only the five inhabited continents (excluding Antarctica)[20][21] — as depicted in the Olympic logo.[22]

If you MUST use an acronym, at least use USAn, as that can at least stand for United States American, which makes more sense.

There is also this point from Wiki:

There's so many ways to divide up the continents. I personally prefer North and South American to be called two seperate continents because they look like two seperate continents connected by a teeny-tiny land bridge.

I think Eurasia makes sense. I don't see any natural seperation between the two continents. Then again, I'm not a geologist so maybe there's a plate reason.

I could say it's French for "friends". :tongue:;):D
And I could be a Mongolian prostitute who is a part-time communist revolutionary when not making ends meet. :tongue:;):D

I'm actually speaking it pretty well. I need to build my vocabulary though, but I'm comfortable speaking it and can be understood. I have a hard time following an adult movie, but not a kids movie. Bokmål is what I'm learning, fortunately. Besides a two week trip to the west, I haven't had to be bothered with the evil that is nynorsk.

Cool, then. How's your accent? :p

There's so many ways to divide up the continents. I personally prefer North and South American to be called two seperate continents because they look like two seperate continents connected by a teeny-tiny land bridge.

I think Eurasia makes sense. I don't see any natural seperation between the two continents. Then again, I'm not a geologist so maybe there's a plate reason.
If you are talking geologically, then no there is no reason to divide up Europa and Asia, as they are one tectonic plate. But for cultural and historical reason, it seems logical and necessary to do so.

Also, North America and South America have more of a reason to be seperate continents (than Europe and Asia) if we are looking at this geologically, as they belong to different plates. Even Central America has its own plate:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8a/Plates_tect2_en.svg/798px-Plates_tect2_en.svg.png

There's so many ways to divide up the continents. I personally prefer North and South American to be called two seperate continents because they look like two seperate continents connected by a teeny-tiny land bridge.

They are separate, they are both on different plates.

I don't see any natural seperation between the two continents. Then again, I'm not a geologist so maybe there's a plate reason.

Nope, most of Europe and Asia are on the same plate as each other.

Whatever he or she wishes to be called

What if he or she wishes to be called American?

...

For Latin-America, they can call us Estadounidense or American in spanish, but when speaking our language, they don't really have a say in it.

...

Actually, we do. By the virtue of being able to speak English, we are able to participate in the evolution of the English language.

...

Canadians don't want to be mistaken as coming from the USA. GoG and Sin have repeatedly said why us calling ourselves American is insulting to them.

.....

I wouldn't say insulted. We're pretty thick-skinned.

Sin and GoG. GoG also started a thread on it. They also never refer to US citizens as Americans. But if they are wrong and they like US citizens to call themselves Americans than I must have misunderstood them and they can correct me.

I never started a thread on it. I never use the word American when describing a US citizen. I tend to use Native American as an adjective.

I've already told people to go with United Statesman. Everyone likes that.
....

What about the women?

Indeed:

...snip image...

English is an official language in these states:[17]
Alabama (1990)
...
Louisiana (1807)[24]

That map and that list are not very consistent. Alaska is on the list, but is grey. Texas is also grey but is not on the list.

well its the thread with the least amount of sourcing required.

This thread has made me laugh several times.

Flying fuck goes back to at least 1845 and refers to having sex on a horse - it is mentioned and illustrated in Pretty Little Games for Young Ladies and Gentlemen by Thomas Rowlandson. Accompanied by this delightful snippet of poetry

This better be a real book. Or I will be sorely disappointed.

Cool, then. How's your accent? :p
I've apparently got a really strange one. It's obvious of course, that Norwegian is not my native language, but often people can't tell I'm an English speaker from my accent.


If you are talking geologically, then no there is no reason to divide up Europa and Asia, as they are one tectonic plate. But for cultural and historical reason, it seems logical and necessary to do so.

Also, North America and South America have more of a reason to be seperate continents (than Europe and Asia) if we are looking at this geologically, as they belong to different plates. Even Central America has its own plate:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8a/Plates_tect2_en.svg/798px-Plates_tect2_en.svg.png
For most intents and purposes the division of Europe and Asia makes sense. It does start making less sense when you start looking at countries close to the divide. Like Istanbul, half the city is in Europe and half is in Asia.

They are separate, they are both on different plates.

Nope, most of Europe and Asia are on the same plate as each other.
*starts a crusade to redefine the landmass.*


I wouldn't say insulted. We're pretty thick-skinned.


I never started a thread on it. I never use the word American when describing a US citizen. I tend to use Native American as an adjective.
Yeah, I knew insulted was the wrong word. My sleep-deprived brain can't English well.

I also apologise for mis-identifying you as the last "USian" thread starter.

They are separate, they are both on different plates.

plates don't work as the dividing points. otherwise the russian far east is in north america.

This better be a real book. Or I will be sorely disappointed.

Real, but rare and expensive.

...

Yeah, I knew insulted was the wrong word. My sleep-deprived brain can't English well.

I also apologise for mis-identifying you as the last "USian" thread starter.

No worries. I'm sure someone got mad at me then as well.

plates don't work as the dividing points. otherwise the russian far east is in north america.

And everything west of the San Andreas would not be part of North America.

And everything west of the San Andreas would not be part of North America.

... would people complain? :tongue:

plates don't work as the dividing points. otherwise the russian far east is in north america.

So that means we can kick them out under the Monroe doctrine ?

So that means we can kick them out under the Monroe doctrine ?

i think they get the exemption since they colonized the place early enough

i think they get the exemption since they colonized the place early enough

So we give them 2 cents an acre and call it a day?

If you MUST use an acronym, at least use USAn, as that can at least stand for United States American, which makes more sense.

I support this Measure, ^^^*stamps Skallvian Endorsement*

No worries. I'm sure someone got mad at me then as well.

Some of us have stayed mad at you for years! :D

plates don't work as the dividing points. otherwise the russian far east is in north america.

well... Palin can see russia from her home... so your point? :D

I cannot believe that there are actually people who choose to be offended by the term, "USian." I recognize that Canada and Mexico are also part of North America, and that the continent of South America exists. I agree that anyone, from either continent, could reasonably claim to be "American." When better terminology arises, tradition be damned! My thanks to whoever coined the term, "USian." Certainly, some people may try to use it derogatorily, just as some conservative pundits in the US use "French." I consider them pig-headed, no offense intended to pigs. Why is the use of "USian" even an issue?

And in case you have sigs off,
Language is a filter which distorts our perceptions. In order to truly experience reality, one must transcend language.

Most of us here in other parts of the American continent refer to ourselves as their own nationality. You will never find a Canadian who calls him/herself American, or a Nicaraguan, or a Colombian, or a Brazilian, and so forth. If you ask me my nationality, I will respond with Nicaraguan, and not American, even though Nicaragua is part of the American continent.

It is a generally accepted term to call those from the United States, Americans, and this whole USian thing just seems as if it was made for the reason of being offensive.

plates don't work as the dividing points. otherwise the russian far east is in north america.

That could be arranged.

It is a generally accepted term to call those from the United States, Americans, and this whole USian thing just seems as if it was made for the reason of being offensive.
I'm curious; How do you get from USian not being the generally accepted term to it being "made for the reason of being offensive"?

I'm curious; How do you get from USian not being the generally accepted term to it being "made for the reason of being offensive"?

Well, while its debatable as to its purpose, it has been used in such a fashion...

Most of us here in other parts of the American continent refer to ourselves as their own nationality. You will never find a Canadian who calls him/herself American, or a Nicaraguan, or a Colombian, or a Brazilian, and so forth. If you ask me my nationality, I will respond with Nicaraguan, and not American, even though Nicaragua is part of the American continent.

It is a generally accepted term to call those from the United States, Americans, and this whole USian thing just seems as if it was made for the reason of being offensive.

LMAO! You are very perceptive and exactly right! :D

No one cares about your opinions or your sugestions SaintB. :p

Oh yeah thanks Blouman that's precisely what I needed to read right now! :mad:

J/P

Well, while its debatable as to its purpose, it has been used in such a fashion...

I don't dispute that, but so what? Is there any indication that the term, coined before 1939, was made for the reason of being offensive, even if some people have used it in such a fashion?

What if he or she wishes to be called American?




Then he or she is more than welcome to be one of us, ;)

I don't dispute that, but so what? Is there any indication that the term, coined before 1939, was made for the reason of being offensive, even if some people have used it in such a fashion?

"USian" was coined before 1939? Ive never heard it before NSG, and im quite positive it didnt exist in 1939...

Im going to have to see a source for this...

"FBI Agent" is a bit redundant. How about "FBIian" instead? It would be great for all those TVian shows about USian FBIians and not at all awkward and lame.

"FBI Agent" is a bit redundant.

no it isn't

I googled it, and the only search item related was this...

http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=USian

Which just happens to state This:
3. USian
Derogatory term used to refer to citizens of the United States of America. Usually used by those who want to insult the USA or American citizens while loudly proclaiming they are simply trying to differentiate between citizens of the USA and citizens of other nations in the North and South American continents.
You are just like every other USian , arrogant and egotistical, not like other Americans.

"USian" was coined before 1939? Ive never heard it before NSG, and im quite positive it didnt exist in 1939...

Im going to have to see a source for this...

H. L. Mencken collected a number of alternate terms from between 1789 and 1939 for the December 1947 issue of American Speech; according to Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of English Usage, the list includes, in relative historical sequence, "such terms as Columbian, Columbard, Fredonian, Frede, Unisian, United Statesian, Colonican, Appalacian, Usian, Washingtonian, Usonian, Uessian, U-S-ian, Uesican, United Stater."

Wiki-link often quoted throughout the thread (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alternative_words_for_American)

Source for the wiki-quote (http://books.google.com/books?id=2yJusP0vrdgC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Merriam-Webster%27s+Dictionary+of+English+Usage#PPA87,M1)

I googled it, and the only search item related was this...

http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=USian

Which just happens to state This:

And?

Is UrbanDictionary an authoritative work? And if so, why are you ignoring no. 1 and 2?

no it isn't

Redundant-seeming and awkward, then. Agent of the Agency. Meh.

I googled it, and the only search item related was this...

http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=USian

Which just happens to state This:

i think its a bit incestuous to cite the third definition there

USian sounds...weird.

And?

Is UrbanDictionary an authoritative work? And if so, why are you ignoring no. 1 and 2?

First, no, and Second, Im not...

Im just stating that one of the Usages is the one I mentioned...There have been several posts suggesting that it is not used in such a manner...

And the fact that is not an authoritative work and is the only item that turned up having to do with the word, was meant to convey its lack of usage...

i think its a bit incestuous to cite the third definition there

So, citing the definition that supports the claim of it being derogatory translates to Incest? :confused:

So, citing the definition that supports the claim of it being derogatory translates to Incest? :confused:

also, what's wrong with incest?

i think its a bit incestuous to cite the third definition there

Wait... Is that third definition provided by Forrest "Eustrusca" Horn?! :eek2:

Oh my word! :tongue:

*snip*

Alright, its listed...But, Id like a source of it being accepted as an alternative, and documented as such...

Wait... Is that third definition provided by Forrest "Eustrusca" Horn?! :eek2:

Oh my word! :tongue:

yup

First, no, and Second, Im not...

Im just stating that one of the Usages is the one I mentioned...There have been several posts suggesting that it is not used in such a manner...

And the fact that is not an authoritative work and is the only item that turned up having to do with the word, was meant to convey its lack of usage...

But you disregarded my post showing you that it existed prior to 1939.

(And no, I haven't mentioned anything about the usage or lack thereof... But then again, that's not really relevant for my question on if there's any foundation to the claim that the word is made for the reason of being offensive.)

But you disregarded my post showing you that it existed prior to 1939.

(And no, I haven't mentioned anything about the usage or lack thereof... But then again, that's not really relevant for my question on if there's any foundation to the claim that the word is made for the reason of being offensive.)
Um....lolwut?

You seem to have missed something...

Alright, its listed...But, Id like a source of it being accepted as an alternative, and documented as such...

Alright, its listed...But, Id like a source of it being accepted as an alternative, and documented as such...

Knock yourself out. Happy searching.

Knock yourself out. Happy searching.

Ive searched, and found nothing...

Wasnt there that whole Burden of Proof thing...

Um....lolwut?

You seem to have missed something...

Yep, your post that came while I was typing.

Still, I've done my part. I'm still waiting for anyone to show me that the word was made for the reason of being offensive.

Ive searched, and found nothing...

Wasnt there that whole Burden of Proof thing...

Proof of what?

It was coined before 1939 yes?

Redundant-seeming and awkward, then. Agent of the Agency. Meh.

it is neither redundant nor awkward to distinguish between agents and agencies, nor to link agents to agencies. how would it be?

besides, the word fibbie already exists if you want something else.

Proof of what?

It was coined before 1939 yes?

Proof of it being an Acceptable Alternative...as far as the OP is concerned, Ive seen none....

it is neither redundant nor awkward to distinguish between agents and agencies, nor to link agents to agencies. how would it be?

besides, the word fibbie already exists if you want something else.

"G man"?

it is neither redundant nor awkward to distinguish between agents and agencies, nor to link agents to agencies. how would it be?

Because I say so.

besides, the word fibbie already exists if you want something else.

Existing words are not good enough! I demand words made of suffixes awkwardly tacked on to acronyms!

Proof of it being an Acceptable Alternative...as far as the OP is concerned, Ive seen none....

To turn it around: Why wouldn't it be acceptable? I can think of some reasons, but what do you think?

To turn it around: Why wouldn't it be acceptable? I can think of some reasons, but what do you think?

The main reason being that its not representative of the populace, it has almost nothing to do with the United States of America...

If there must be an alternative then it should be US American, and if you must abbreviate it, i Believe it was Hydesland who suggested it be, USan, which at least would be a proper pejorative of US American...

However, I would only want it used when there needs to be a distinction between Non-US Americans in the Americas and the US Americans...

otherwise Id still prefer just "American"

Existing words are not good enough! I demand words made of suffixes awkwardly tacked on to acronyms!

but its the wrong suffix for your purpose. find a better one. maybe -an, so the word would be efbee-eyen?

"efbee-eyen" defeats the whole purpose. FBIan!

fuh bee ann

Oh so you WERE trying to be funny. Try harder.

Oh, no, NERVUN doesn't think I'm funny. I'm devestated.

Ah! Good. Show me widespread usage. A word can be jargon, slang, or other but until it has widespread usage... well then you've got your own little universe and that's fine, just don't try to confuse your Internet jargon with the real world.

Ah, we agree, it's a word. You argued otherwise. I'm enjoying your loss of the argu... I mean, I accept your concession. I take it you forgot what you were arguing. I know you're trying to be good at debate. Try harder.

Meanwhile, so people on the internet aren't real? I didn't realize. What are they, then?

Oh, no, NERVUN doesn't think I'm funny. I'm devestated.
That's your comeback? I hear better stuff from my students.

Ah, we agree, it's a word. You argued otherwise. I'm enjoying your loss of the argu... I mean, I accept your concession. I take it you forgot what you were arguing. I know you're trying to be good at debate. Try harder.
Ah, no. I didn't say it wasn't a word, I said that you can hardly claim that it has any widespread usage ( http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14667993&postcount=687 ). Sorry if you assumed otherwise.

But, by the way, Jocbia, are you ever going to find me any evidence that does show USian has useage offline? Oh, and don't forget your bullshit claim that I stated that as an English teacher I know how English is used or something like that.

For someone claiming victory, your argument has some large gaping holes.

Meanwhile, so people on the internet aren't real? I didn't realize. What are they, then?
Real word vs online world. Again, back to the matter at hand instead of your attempts to distract from the fact that you can't show widespread usage of USian.

That's your comeback? I hear better stuff from my students.


Ah, no. I didn't say it wasn't a word, I said that you can hardly claim that it has any widespread usage ( http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14667993&postcount=687 ). Sorry if you assumed otherwise.

But, by the way, Jocbia, are you ever going to find me any evidence that does show USian has useage offline? Oh, and don't forget your bullshit claim that I stated that as an English teacher I know how English is used or something like that.

For someone claiming victory, your argument has some large gaping holes.


Real word vs online world. Again, back to the matter at hand instead of your attempts to distract from the fact that you can't show widespread usage of USian.
Didn't Gravlen provide evidence of its usage since 1939? I do believe that predates the internet.

Didn't Gravlen provide evidence of its usage since 1939? I do believe that predates the internet.

Its suggestion, not its usage...

He, himself, admitted that it has never entered common Usage...

Its suggestion, not its usage...

He, himself, admitted that it has never entered common Usage...

Nervun asked for "any evidence" that USian had offline usage. Just pointing out there was.

Let me again point out that I'm in no way a fan of the word, I prefer Columbian (North Columbian in spoken language).

Okay, that's it. We're getting to the "again" and "as I said before" and "didn't somebody else post" stage.

Pulling up the tent-pegs, hauling down the canvas, the annual visit of the USian circus is o-o-over. Maybe next year it'll make 1000 posts. Or maybe not.