It’s true, I’m not.
No matter how much I might sound like I think I am, most of what I share here is from my own informal research. Of course working in an English-language school helps, as does my own interest in language, but I could never claim to be an expert in any kind of official sense. Though, if you look at where the word comes from, then maybe I am…
It comes via Old French from the Latin experitus (tried, proven, known by experience), with the ex- suffix, as we now all know, meaning from or out of, and peritus meaning experienced or tested.
Ah, now that sounds a little more like me! Most of what I write is based on my life experiences. I might see or hear a word, and start thinking about it, and within about 24 hours you’ll probably have to read it.
OK, I’m not officially an expert. An interested amateur, perhaps, but at least now I feel a little more justified in thinking that sometimes I might know what I’m talking about!
English-Language Thoughts 
Someone once described an expert as: X is an unknown quantity, and a spurt is a drip under pressure.
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I think when I’m writing I often feel like both simultaneously!
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It’s interesting to me how people who are eager to tell you that they are no expert, usually know more than those who can’t wait to tell you they’re a thought leader, award-winning specialist, guru, or … expert! Thanks for another interesting post!
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My pleasure! I’m always suspicious of anyone who claims to be an expert!
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Compared to me though, I would consider you an expert because you know a lot more about language, but it is good to be modest!
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Thanks, I think I’m still working my way to expert level, but I for my job I definitely have to know more than the average person!
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I think that you are very well on your way to becoming an expert, if you are quite sure that you are not one already! Another fascinating post, thanks for sharing your thoughts and wisdom 🙂
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My pleasure, and thanks 😊
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If you don’t want to say you’re an expert, you could still say that your area of expertise would be the English language, right? I mean, you’re very good at explaining everything to foreigners and others who are interested, not everyone could write about etymology and still make it interesting.
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Thanks! “Area of expertise” is actually a nice way to say it, not as arrogant as “expert!”
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You are an expert in my eyes haha! Why do people find the need and time to write comments like that?! Strange!! Keep doing what you are doing pal x
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Thanks 😊.
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And “amateur”. That’s another good one who’s deeper meaning is often overlooked.
You say you are an amateur and yet (as most people would compare it) you clearly use your knowledge in your profession. I like to think that one can pursue an interest for love AND money.
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