Legal Writing

Word of the Day: Derision

By Daniel Scocco

Derision is a scornful treatment of someone or something; a mockery or ridicule. The object that is being mocked can be called derision.

President Reagan’s long-awaited announcement that he would run for a second term touched off celebrations last night by his supporters, choruses of derision by opponents and promises of a tough campaign by Republicans and Democrats alike. (NY Times)

That’s what makes Google so intriguing, and a worthy subject for New Yorker writer Ken Auletta’s 11th book, Googled: The End of the World As We Know It. Unlike Curse, which treats moguls with derision, Auletta’s more interested in penetrating the often secretive world of the business elite and telling the stories with skill, intelligence and respect. (USA Today)

Full post as published by Daily Writing Tips on January 18, 2010 (boomark / email).