Safer to check

You know it's "buck naked", right? Check how you use these expressions

Let’s see… Are you the friend who constantly corrects other people's vocabulary and grammar? Or are you the one on the receiving end of corrections? The truth is that we have probably all been both. This time, let this article be the one clarifying the correct use of each of these common expressions. And, if it turns out you’ve been using one wrong for years… we won’t tell anyone.

Correct use: Pique my interest

The correct verb here is pique, which comes from French and means to stimulate or arouse curiosity. When something "pique[s] your interest," it sparks it.

"Peak" refers to the top of a mountain. Unless your curiosity is climbing Everest, that spelling doesn’t belong here.

Correct use: Giving leeway

The correct word is "leeway," meaning extra space, freedom, or margin for error. It comes from nautical language, referring to the sideways drift of a ship caused by wind.

"Leadway" does sound plausible, especially since "lead" can imply movement, but historically and etymologically, it’s leeway.

Correct use: Statute of limitations

A statute is a law. A statue is made of marble or bronze. It does make you wonder what people who use the incorrect version believe they are saying.

Correct use: Buck naked

While "butt naked" is very common in American speech, the earlier and historically supported form is buck naked, meaning completely unclothed.

Its use dates back to at least the early 1900s, some four decades before "butt naked" appeared in the late 1960s. One theory links a person’s smooth, naked skin to that of a buck, meaning a male deer.

Correct use: Nerve-racking

The original form is nerve-racking, from the verb "to rack," meaning to strain or torture, like on a medieval rack.

"Wreck" slipped in later because it sounds similar, but historically, the expression refers to nerves being strained, not destroyed.

Correct use: Old wives’ tale

The correct phrase dates back centuries and refers to traditional folklore or superstition passed down informally. "Wise" makes it sound flattering, but the original expression wasn’t meant as a compliment.

Correct use: On tenterhooks

A tenterhook was a hook used to stretch cloth on a frame called a tenter. Being "on tenterhooks" meant being stretched tight, which evolved into feeling anxious or in suspense. It has nothing to do with tenderness, so watch your pronunciation.

Correct use: Off your own bat

The phrase comes from cricket. To do something "off your own bat" means you did it on your own initiative. Over time, "bat" became "back," which sounds logical but loses the sports origin.

Correct use: White as a sheet

When someone looks pale, we say they’re "white as a sheet." Technically, you could still say you went white as a sheep, but you’d be referring to a darker, less uniformly white shade.

Correct use: Toe the line

This saying came originally from athletics, where runners literally placed their toes on the starting line. It means to conform or follow rules. Nothing is being towed… And how could you tow a line, anyway?

Correct use: Beck and call

The phrase dates back to the 1800s and means being ready to respond instantly to someone’s signal or command. "Beckon" feels logical, and it’s very close, but historically it’s "beck."

YOU WILL NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE

Ten Items To Build Your Capsule Wardrobe For The Summer

Image: Amanda Vick

How often do you stand in front of your closet full of clothes, trying to figure out what to wear for that date you have in an hour, and decide you have nothing to wear? As you might have already figured out, pulling the right outfit has nothing to do with the number of items you have hanging in your closet. That is how the concept of a capsule wardrobe became so popular. Do you want to know all about it? Read on and see what you need to become a fashion master!

Image: Fernando Lavin

This term became popular a couple of years ago and consists of a compact closet, that is, a minimum number of items that match each other. The idea behind this concept is to have several possible combinations of items to pull all kinds of looks that can be adapted to different events.

The benefits of the capsule wardrobe are mainly two. On the one hand, it saves you time, regardless of what you grab, all the items match each other and you will have a stylish look at the end. On the other hand, you save money, or better, you can save your money for special and unique items that are usually expensive but elevate your wardrobe.

Capsule wardrobes go against fast fashion and require classic and timeless pieces that we all have or buy at some point in our lives. Here are ten items that can get you started on your capsule wardrobe.

Image: Mediamodifier

This item may seem dull at first, but there are probably a thousand shapes or styles, and you can benefit from all of them.

A classic white t-shirt is a staple in any capsule wardrobe. It can be dressed up or down effortlessly, and pair perfectly with a great variety of items. A white T-shirt with tailored trousers for a professional look, or jeans for a casual vibe, are just two of the multiple options.

If it is a long-sleeved shirt, you can roll up the sleeves and knot it at the waist for a chic twist, or layer it under a sweater for added warmth in colder weather. The options are endless.

Image: Masha Kotliarenko

Trench coats come from the military world as they were specifically designed for British Army officers. However, they broke all kinds of boundaries and became widely popular as a staple. A classic trench coat is both stylish and practical, making it a must-have item.

Choose a neutral color like beige or khaki for maximum versatility, and opt for a lightweight fabric that can be worn year-round. Layer it over everything from jeans and a sweater to a tailored suit for a timeless outwear option that never goes out of style.

Image: Ruta Gudeliene

Whether it is wool or cashmere, a sweater is a must. A neutral color will always go a long way, but you can pick a neutral and a colored one to optimize your looks. A cashmere sweater is a luxurious yet practical addition in any form or shape.

Neutral colors can be easily mixed and matched with other pieces. You can layer it over a collared shirt for a preppy look, or pair it with jeans and sneakers for a cozy weekend outfit. The softness and warmth of cashmere make it perfect for layering in cold weather, while its timeless appeal ensures that it will never go out of style.

Image: Matthew Moloney

This item has been around for the longest time and we’ve got Levi Strauss and Jacob Devis to thank. In a century, we have seen jeans take all kinds of shapes and there are probably more than one that flatters your figure. Whichever it is, pick that one and get it in a dark-washed color to get a wide variety of looks.

By themselves, they can be quite informal, but you can dress them up with a blazer and heels, or dress them down with sneakers and a sweater for a laid-back weekend look.

Image: Unsplash+

Blazers are usually seen in office looks and used when trying to elevate an outfit. And that is the case, but it is much more versatile than that.

A well-fitted blazer instantly adds polish to any outfit. Choose a neutral color like black, navy, or charcoal for maximum versatility. Layer it over a dress for a sophisticated office ensemble, or pair it with jeans and a t-shirt for a smart casual look. The structured silhouette of a blazer can also help define your waist and elevate your overall appearance.

Image: Neal E. Johnson

Coco Chanel has made immense contributions to the fashion world, but the little black dress is probably one of the best. Every female capsule wardrobe should include a little black dress that can be worn for a variety of occasions.

Choose a silhouette that flatters your body shape and can be easily accessorized to suit different dress codes. Whether you are attending a cocktail party or a formal event, a well-chosen LBD is always appropriate and effortlessly chic.

Image: Becca Tapert

Denim jackets add a cool factor to any look. Its timeless appeal lies in its versatility, making it a staple in both men and women's wardrobe.

Their rugged yet stylish appearance adds a touch of edge to any ensemble, whether you are going for a casual daytime look or dressing up for a night out.

One of the key benefits of this item is its ability to layer seamlessly over a variety of outfits. Throw it over a t-shirt or sweater for an extra layer of warmth on chilly days, or wear it unbuttoned over a dress for a relaxed, laid-back vibe.

Image: Tima Miroshnichenko

Investing in a pair of well-made tailored trousers is an investment in quality craftsmanship that will stand the test of time. Look for trousers crafted from high-quality fabrics like wool, cotton, or blends that offer durability and longevity.

They are designed to flatter your figure with careful attention to detail in the cut and construction. Whether you prefer a slim, straight, or wide-leg silhouette, tailored trousers enhance your shape and provide a comfortable yet chic fit.

Image: Stanley G. Mathu

This versatile footwear works for both men and women, but the latter may also need to add a pair of black heels to complete the shoe part of the capsule wardrobe. Loafers add a touch of sophistication, they are a timeless addition.

The versatility of black or brown loafers lies in their ability to transition seamlessly from day to night and from casual to formal occasions. And there is no objecting to their slip-on design which makes them comfortable and convenient for everyday wear.

Image: Mojtaba Fahiminia

As the last item in today’s list for a capsule wardrobe, we included a pair of sneakers. They will bring comfort to your look at the same time they can be quite chic.

With tailored pants, the look can take a more casual turn while, with a pair of jeans and a white t-shirt, they are the perfect option for a relaxed weekend at the park, for example.

Contrary to other items, like loafers or a denim jacket, sneakers can be your statement piece in the ensemble so, even if neutral tones are always a good first choice, colored sneakers are equally versatile and can elevate any look.