Language

Today You Should Know answers your curious questions about how the world works. Here's everything we've covered (so far) on the topic of language. Whether you're interested in why we call “seconds” seconds or why metaphors are used, there will definitely be something that satisfies your curiosity about how the world works.

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Why do we say "brand" new?
Why do we say "brand" new?

And, for that matter, why do we say brand “spanking” new?

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Why do we use metaphors?
Why do we use metaphors?

We use one unique metaphor for every 25 words spoken.

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Why is a second called a second?
Why is a second called a second?

First came minutes, second came seconds.

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Why is a day 24 hours? Why is an hour 60 minutes?
Why is a day 24 hours? Why is an hour 60 minutes?

We have to thank some ancient minds for these special numbers.

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Why do we call our parents "Mom" and "Dad"?
Why do we call our parents "Mom" and "Dad"?

Not many folks call their parents “Denise” and “Bill.”

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Why does America use a MM/DD/YY date format?
Why does America use a MM/DD/YY date format?

It’s like an American accent but with calendars.

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Why is “W” called double U and not double V?
Why is “W” called double U and not double V?

Many other languages call it a “double V”. English hasn’t caught up with the trends.

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