[Lowlands-l] Is the list alive? Here is a linguist question!

[Lowlands Languages & Cultures]

On 7/17/2017 6:52 AM, Marlou wrote:
>
> Thanks a lot, dear Edwin Alexander! So the list is alive at any rate! 
> I didn't know the American football thing.
>

It has achieved a metaphorical use as well.  American and Canadian 
Football differ in a few somewhat minor aspects such as number of 
players, size of field, and number of "downs".  A team must advance at 
least 10 yards in 4 (Am) or 3 (Can) "downs" or hand the ball over to the 
opposition.  There is the option of "punting" on the 4/3rd down if a 
team is unlikely to make up the remaining yardage on the last 
opportunity.  In business, for example, if one is too far apart in a 
negotiation, it may be time to "punt."  I'm not sure I got that example 
quite right, but that's the idea.

Thank you Marlou for reviving the list!  I guess it's like_Dawn of the 
Living Dead_:  just when you think it's been killed, it comes back to 
eat your brain.

Edwin Alexander, Recipient of the prestigious Golden Squirrel Award.


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