When and Where
I came across "desultory" in our readings for last week. In Urquhart and Frazee's Teaching Reading in the Content Areas (2012) they say "if a student does not understand a word such as desultory in a short story, his or her understanding of the story might not be affected" (p. 17). When I read this, I was like, "oh no, I do not know what this word means, does that mean I have never fully understood short stories?"
Level of Familiarity
I have never seen or heard this word before, which surprised me given the context. The way the authors referred to it made it seem a common word that students should know. I could not even begin to use the context to determine its meaning, but it reminded me of the word "result" and also the pre-fix "de" told me the word had more of a negative connotation, having something to do with not being or doing or having something.
What it Means
Dictionary.com defines desultory as: 1. Lacking in consistency, constancy, or visible order, disconnected; fitful. 2. Digressing from or unconnected with the main subject.
Reflective Commentary
My assumption based on the pre-fix was right. This word definitely has a negative connotation. I realized that I understood the concept of desultory even if I did not have that particular term to know it by. I do see myself using this word, especially in my writing. I am always glad when I can learn new adjectives. I do not see myself using it in regualr conversation though, it seems reserved for more formal assignments and speech.
No comments:
Post a Comment