This is brilliant! Was it really 149 ticks or were you exaggerating to make the point?

Personally, I have no problem with the word, "utilize." It's not a new word, it's just that now it's being used incorrectly more often than not - which drives me nuts, too! I'm quite happy to hear it (or I suppose I would use it, although I don't know if I ever have) - but ONLY (and that's "ONLY" in flashing neon lights the size of the Eiffel Tower) when it's used properly!!

There are two others that absolutely send me over the edge. AWESOME - which is now used for the tiniest, most insignificant of things ("Call you later!" "Awesome.") that it has completely destroyed the actual meaning of what used to represent something truly magnificent.

The other is NARRATIVE. I swear, I never, ever heard anyone use that word and then within the space of about 6 minutes, I was hearing it everybloodywhere! ???

If I never hear either of those again, it'll be three days too soon. Been meaning to write about this so you might just see this in a post shortly!

Thanks for sharing your feelings. I totally get what you mean and how you feel! :)