Lost Positives: Rediscovering Forgotten Words in the English Language

The video explores the concept of 'lost positives,' words that have fallen out of use in their positive form but remain in their negative form. It discusses examples like 'Nosant,' 'Ruthful,' 'Feck,' and 'Gorm,' and highlights imposters like 'Whelmed' and 'Inflammable.' The video also touches on the humorous use of these words in literature and encourages the revival of genuine lost positives.

What is a 'lost positive'?

• A word that only exists in its negative form.

• A word that has both positive and negative forms.

• A word that has no meaning.

• A word that is used incorrectly.

What does the word 'ruthful' mean?

• Full of compassion

• Aggressive

• Indifferent

• Lacking compassion

What is the meaning of 'feckful'?

• Full of energy

• Lacking effectiveness

• Useless

• Effective and capable

What does 'gormless' mean?

• Lacking sense

• Energetic

• Full of sense

• Attentive

What is the relationship between 'whelmed' and 'overwhelmed'?

• 'Whelmed' is the opposite of 'overwhelmed'.

• 'Whelmed' is unrelated to 'overwhelmed'.

• 'Whelmed' means the same as 'overwhelmed'.

• 'Whelmed' is a more intense form of 'overwhelmed'.

What does 'gruntled' mean according to PG Woodhouse?

• Confused

• Indifferent

• Displeased

• Happy and satisfied

What does 'shalant' imply?

• Calm

• Lacking energy

• Full of energy

• Indifferent

What does 'kempt' mean?

• Disorganized

• Well-groomed

• Unruly

• Messy

What does 'couth' mean?

• Rude

• Unconventional

• Well-mannered

• Unfamiliar

What does 'evitable' mean?

• Certain

• Unavoidable

• Avoidable

• Inevitable