Page:A Desk-Book of Errors in English.djvu/133

 inkslinger: A vulgar term for a journalist, writer, or literary worker, and as such one to be avoided.

innumerable means "that cannot be numbered." Therefore, avoid such a locution as "an innumerable number," as absurd.

in our midst: An undesirable and ambiguous phrase for "among us" due to the misinterpretation of "in the midst of us," " in the midst of them" (Matt. xviii, 20) but with some literary authority for its use.

in so far as: In this phrase the word in is redundant and meaningless. Do not say, "In so far as I dared, I spoke the truth." Omit the in.

in spite of: A phrase which some persons declare not synonymous with notwithstanding, yet the authorizes its use and says, "formerly in contempt of; now, notwithstanding: used somewhat emphatically."

intend, mean: The use of intend for mean, as in explanatory sentences, is not commonly approved although it has the sanction of literary usage, and is considered correct by lexicographers who in defining the words treat them as interchangeable. When explaining anything that has been said it is preferable to say, "By this I mean," rather than "By this I intend." Do not say "Do you mean to come?" when you wish to know whether or not the person you address intends to come. Compare.