Don't be fooled into thinking that English is a typical language. It's not.

Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on Lexicon Valley each week, and no ads. Sign up now to listen and support our show.

Twitter: @lexiconvalley

Facebook: facebook.com/LexiconValley

Email: lexiconvalley@slate.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices