Out of Context: Phrases That Catch You Off Guard

by Buckshot Lamont
Language Lover

This is the first installment of "Out of Context" a somewhat regular column where we will discover odd turns of phrase and apply them to their rightful contexts. For example:

Phrase: Looming Specter of Condemnation
Found: In an article regarding real property valuation
Original Context: There is a possibility that a property will be condemned, and the looming specter of that condemnation is causing hell for the seller of that property.
Rightful Context: This is going to be my Halloween costume next year. I am going to go to many parties dressed as the looming specter of condemnation. I will be wearing a black robe and a severe frown. I will carry a staff, which I will crack over the heads of people who drool, mumble, or who refuse to share their drugs with the rest of the party.

Phrase: Eschew Obfuscation
Found: Some pretentious writing website that is in desperate need of an editor (I freelance! And I won't call you pretentious if I work for you)
Original Context: When writing, one should use clear, concise prose to articulate one's point.
Rightful Context: This is going to be the name of my pro cycling team. Our logo will be dense fog and it will be strategically placed on the kit so as to give the impression of gaseous fumes emanating from the cyclists' bodies. Hopefully, the management and I can pump the athletes full of lots of drugs so they win every race and then all interviewers will have the tenacious job of saying, "Eschew Obfuscation dominates the podium AGAIN!! Does it never end???"

Phrase: Transpose Boldly
Found: Said during an editing class by a very articulate and intelligent teacher
Original Context: When marking up the hard copy of a piece you are editing, make your transpose sign really, really distinct so the typesetter gets it.
Rightful Context: Well, duh. If this doesn't give you a new lease on life and how to live it, you must be dead.

Transpose boldly, people.