Nouns concluding with the suffix “-pie” kind a small but distinct class within the English lexicon. Examples embrace “magpie,” referring to a hen identified for its placing plumage and vocalizations, and “okie-dokie,” a colloquial expression of settlement. Whereas “occupie,” derived from “occupy,” is much less widespread, it may be present in sure contexts.
Inspecting these phrases reveals connections to various fields, from ornithology to casual language. Etymological roots differ; “magpie,” for example, combines “Magazine,” a shortening of Margaret (a typical identify utilized to chattering birds), and “pie,” from the Latin “pica,” additionally referring to the hen. The evolution of those phrases affords a glimpse into the dynamic nature of language, demonstrating how that means shifts and adapts over time. Understanding these nuances can enrich vocabulary and improve communication.
This exploration of vocabulary serves as a basis for additional linguistic investigation. Subsequent sections will delve into particular elements of those phrases, together with their utilization in numerous literary genres, their regional variations, and their potential for future evolution.
1. Etymology
Etymology performs an important position in understanding phrases ending in “-pie.” Investigating the historic growth of those phrases reveals the evolution of their meanings and their connections to different languages. For instance, the phrase “magpie” derives from the Center English “maggepie,” a compound of “Magazine,” a brief type of the given identify “Margaret” (generally utilized to chattering birds), and “pie,” from the Latin “pica,” additionally denoting any such hen. This etymological breakdown illustrates how seemingly easy phrases can possess wealthy and sophisticated histories, usually rooted in cultural practices and observations of the pure world. One other instance, “okie-dokie,” regardless of its fashionable informality, will be traced again to the Nineteen Thirties Mud Bowl migration, the place “Okie” was used to check with migrants from Oklahoma. The suffix “-dokie” seemingly emerged as a rhyming and emphatic extension.
Understanding the etymology of phrases like “magpie” and “okie-dokie” supplies beneficial insights into semantic change. The shift from “pica” to “pie” demonstrates linguistic evolution throughout languages and time intervals. Equally, tracing “okie-dokie” again to its historic context illuminates the societal influences that form language. Such etymological analyses allow a deeper appreciation for the cultural and historic nuances embedded inside seemingly easy phrases. This deeper understanding facilitates more practical communication and a richer appreciation for linguistic range.
In conclusion, etymological research affords a robust lens for analyzing phrases ending in “-pie.” By tracing the historic growth of those phrases, one features a clearer understanding of their meanings, origins, and evolution. This method not solely enhances vocabulary but additionally strengthens analytical abilities relevant to broader linguistic investigations. The flexibility to decipher the etymological roots of phrases empowers people to interact with language on a extra profound degree, appreciating the wealthy tapestry of cultural and historic influences woven into the material of communication. This deeper understanding facilitates more practical communication and a richer appreciation for linguistic range.
2. Frequency of Use
Frequency of use considerably impacts the evolution and notion of phrases ending in “-pie.” Generally used phrases like “magpie” preserve a secure presence within the lexicon, whereas much less frequent phrases like “occupie” threat obsolescence. This dynamic highlights the precept of linguistic attrition, the place rare utilization contributes to a phrase’s decline. Conversely, frequent utilization reinforces a phrase’s place throughout the lively vocabulary. The disparity in utilization frequency between “magpie” and “occupie” displays their differing roles in communication. “Magpie,” a readily identifiable hen, necessitates a typical time period for reference. “Occupie,” derived from “occupy,” serves a much less distinct operate, leading to decrease utilization and potential redundancy. This distinction underscores how sensible communicative wants affect phrase utilization and longevity.
Corpus linguistics supplies empirical proof of those utilization patterns. Giant-scale language databases show the relative frequency of various phrases, permitting for quantitative evaluation of utilization traits. Such information can reveal not solely present utilization but additionally historic traits, illustrating how frequency fluctuates over time. This data-driven method strengthens the understanding of how utilization influences lexical evolution and the potential destiny of particular phrases. Moreover, frequency evaluation can inform lexicographical practices, influencing dictionary entries and utilization pointers. This data-driven perspective enhances the understanding of how language evolves in response to communicative wants.
In abstract, the frequency of use acts as a robust power shaping the lexicon. Phrases like “magpie,” ceaselessly used, get pleasure from continued prominence, whereas much less widespread phrases face potential decline. This dynamic interaction between utilization and survival underscores the adaptive nature of language. By analyzing frequency information, one features beneficial insights into the forces driving lexical evolution. This understanding supplies a framework for deciphering present linguistic patterns and anticipating future adjustments. The frequency evaluation affords a beneficial software for understanding the continuing evolution of language.
3. Morphological Construction
Morphological construction performs a vital position in understanding phrases ending in “-pie.” This suffix features primarily as a derivational morpheme, remodeling the bottom phrase and sometimes altering its grammatical class. As an illustration, including “-pie” to “magazine” (a shortened type of Margaret) creates the noun “magpie.” This means of suffixation illustrates how morphemes mix to kind new phrases with distinct meanings. Whereas much less widespread, “-pie” also can seem in compound phrases like “okie-dokie,” the place it contributes to the general casual and emphatic tone. Analyzing the morphological construction illuminates the operate of “-pie” in phrase formation and its influence on semantic interpretation.
Contemplating the morphological construction of those phrases permits for a deeper understanding of their composition and potential for additional derivations. Whereas examples like “sleeppie” (a colloquial time period for sleepiness) exist, the productiveness of “-pie” as a suffix is restricted. This restricted productiveness contrasts with extra versatile suffixes like “-ness” or “-ing,” which readily mix with a wider vary of bases. Understanding these constraints on morphological derivation clarifies the particular operate of “-pie” throughout the English lexicon. Moreover, morphological evaluation helps differentiate between true derivations and situations the place “-pie” seems as half of a bigger, non-decomposable unit, as in “okie-dokie.” This distinction is essential for correct linguistic evaluation and prevents misinterpretations of phrase formation processes.
In abstract, analyzing the morphological construction of phrases ending in “-pie” supplies important insights into their formation, grammatical operate, and semantic interpretation. The suffix “-pie” primarily serves as a derivational morpheme, creating new phrases from current bases. Nonetheless, its restricted productiveness distinguishes it from different extra versatile suffixes. Recognizing these morphological nuances facilitates a extra exact understanding of how phrases are constructed and the way their meanings evolve. This analytical method enhances general linguistic competence and contributes to a extra nuanced understanding of the English language.
4. Semantic Fields
Semantic fields present a framework for understanding how phrases relate to at least one one other primarily based on shared meanings. Inspecting the semantic fields related to phrases ending in “-pie” reveals connections and distinctions that contribute to a deeper understanding of their utilization and connotations. This exploration considers varied aspects of that means, together with conceptual associations, contextual utilization, and potential overlaps with different semantic domains.
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Fowl Names
Essentially the most outstanding semantic area related to “-pie” pertains to hen names, exemplified by “magpie.” This connection stems from the historic utilization of “pie” (derived from the Latin “pica”) to indicate birds of the corvid household. This affiliation strongly influences the perceived that means of “magpie,” linking it to traits usually attributed to those birds, comparable to intelligence, vocalization, and scavenging habits. This particular semantic affiliation distinguishes “magpie” from different “-pie” phrases.
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Casual Language
Phrases like “okie-dokie” occupy a definite semantic area associated to casual language and colloquial expressions. This affiliation hyperlinks “-pie” to informal communication, usually implying a lighthearted or playful tone. The semantic area of casual language distinguishes these phrases from the extra formal and denotative utilization of “magpie.” This distinction highlights the significance of context in deciphering the that means and connotations of phrases ending in “-pie.”
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Verbs and Actions
Whereas much less widespread, “-pie” can seem in phrases associated to verbs and actions, as in “occupie.” This utilization, although much less frequent, connects “-pie” to the semantic area of ongoing processes or states of being. This connection differs considerably from the established associations with birds or casual language, highlighting the flexibility of the suffix, albeit inside a restricted scope. This much less widespread utilization can typically result in ambiguity or misinterpretation, additional emphasizing the significance of contextual evaluation.
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Baby-directed Language
The suffix “-pie” can sometimes seem in child-directed language, usually as a diminutive or time period of endearment (e.g., “sleepy-pie”). This utilization connects “-pie” to the semantic area of childhood and parental affection, including a layer of emotional connotation. This affiliation additional diversifies the semantic vary of “-pie,” demonstrating its adaptability throughout completely different communicative contexts. Nonetheless, this utilization stays primarily colloquial and restricted to particular interpersonal conditions.
In conclusion, analyzing the semantic fields related to phrases ending in “-pie” reveals a various vary of meanings and connotations. From hen names to casual expressions and even child-directed language, the suffix demonstrates adaptability throughout completely different communicative contexts. Understanding these semantic connections supplies a extra nuanced appreciation for the complexities of language and the delicate methods by which that means is conveyed. Recognizing these various associations enhances comprehension and permits for more practical communication.
5. Regional Variations
Regional variations considerably affect the utilization and pronunciation of phrases, and phrases ending in “-pie” aren’t any exception. Analyzing these variations supplies beneficial insights into the dynamic nature of language and the way geographical elements contribute to lexical range. This exploration considers how pronunciation, utilization frequency, and even the particular phrases themselves can differ throughout areas, enriching the understanding of “-pie” phrases in a broader linguistic context.
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Pronunciation Variations
Pronunciation of “magpie” can differ throughout areas. Some dialects might emphasize the primary syllable, whereas others stress the second. These delicate phonetic shifts, whereas not altering the core that means, contribute to the wealthy tapestry of regional accents and dialects. Such variations, although seemingly minor, can function markers of regional identification and contribute to the general range of spoken English.
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Variations in Utilization Frequency
Whereas “magpie” enjoys widespread recognition, its frequency of use might differ regionally. In areas the place the hen is extra prevalent, the time period’s utilization seemingly will increase. Conversely, in areas the place the hen is much less widespread, the time period might seem much less ceaselessly in on a regular basis dialog. This correlation between regional fauna and lexical frequency exemplifies how environmental elements can affect language utilization.
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Regional Slang and Colloquialisms
Regional slang and colloquialisms can contribute to variations in “-pie” phrases. Whereas “okie-dokie” has comparatively widespread utilization, different regionally particular “-pie” phrases would possibly exist, significantly inside casual contexts. These localized phrases, usually undocumented in normal dictionaries, present beneficial insights into the dynamic and evolving nature of regional dialects. Documenting and analyzing such variations contribute to a extra complete understanding of lexical range.
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Affect of Neighboring Languages
In areas the place English interacts with different languages, the pronunciation and utilization of “-pie” phrases could be influenced by neighboring linguistic methods. This cross-linguistic affect can result in distinctive variations, reflecting the dynamic interaction between languages involved. Learning these interactions supplies beneficial insights into language change and adaptation in multilingual environments.
In abstract, regional variations contribute considerably to the varied panorama of “-pie” phrases in English. From delicate shifts in pronunciation to variations in utilization frequency and the emergence of regional slang, these elements spotlight the dynamic and adaptable nature of language. Learning these regional variations supplies a richer understanding of how geographical and cultural contexts form lexical range, contributing to a extra nuanced appreciation of the complexities of English. This exploration underscores the significance of contemplating regional context when analyzing language use and evolution.
6. Literary Functions
Literary functions of phrases ending in “-pie” show the artistic potential of language inside inventive contexts. Authors make the most of these phrases to attain particular stylistic results, usually leveraging their inherent connotations and sonic qualities. The time period “magpie,” for instance, seems ceaselessly in poetry and prose, usually symbolizing chatter, acquisitiveness, or contrasting parts. Shakespeare’s use of “magpie” in Macbeth highlights the hen’s affiliation with ailing omens, contributing to the play’s ambiance of foreboding. This literary utilization transcends the phrase’s fundamental denotative that means, imbuing it with symbolic weight and enriching the textual content’s thematic complexity. Equally, “okie-dokie,” whereas primarily casual, will be employed in dialogue to determine character voice and convey a way of informality or naivet, relying on the narrative context. This deliberate selection of vocabulary contributes to character growth and reinforces the general narrative tone. The looks of such phrases, even seemingly easy ones, enriches the literary panorama and affords insights into authorial intent.
Analyzing the literary functions of those phrases requires contemplating their broader cultural and historic contexts. The symbolic connotations related to “magpie,” for example, are rooted in folklore and conventional beliefs surrounding the hen. This cultural baggage provides depth to the phrase’s literary utilization, permitting authors to evoke a wealth of related imagery and that means. Equally, understanding the historic origins of “okie-dokie” permits readers to understand its utilization in literature, recognizing the social and financial contexts that inform its connotations. This consciousness enhances the reader’s understanding of character motivations and narrative themes. By analyzing these broader contexts, one features a deeper appreciation for the nuanced methods by which authors make the most of language to create that means and evoke particular emotional responses. This analytical method enhances the studying expertise and fosters a deeper engagement with literary texts.
In conclusion, exploring the literary functions of phrases ending in “-pie” supplies beneficial insights into the interaction between language, tradition, and inventive expression. Authors strategically make use of these phrases to attain particular stylistic and thematic results, usually drawing upon their established connotations and sonic qualities. Understanding these literary makes use of requires contemplating the broader cultural and historic contexts that inform phrase meanings. This analytical method enriches the studying expertise and fosters a deeper appreciation for the complexities of language inside literary works. By recognizing the deliberate selections authors make of their collection of vocabulary, readers can achieve a deeper understanding of character growth, narrative themes, and the general inventive influence of the textual content. This consciousness empowers readers to interact with literature on a extra profound degree, appreciating the nuanced methods by which language shapes that means and creates emotional resonance.
7. Colloquialisms
Colloquialisms, casual expressions attribute of informal dialog, signify a big side of language evolution. Inspecting the intersection of colloquialisms and phrases ending in “-pie” supplies insights into how casual language makes use of and adapts current linguistic constructions. This exploration focuses on the particular methods by which the “-pie” suffix features inside colloquial expressions, contributing to their distinct character and communicative nuances.
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Diminutives and Phrases of Endearment
The “-pie” suffix ceaselessly seems in colloquial diminutives and phrases of endearment, comparable to “sweetie-pie” or “honey-pie.” These expressions leverage the suffix to convey affection and intimacy, usually inside household or shut relationships. This utilization transforms the bottom phrase, imbuing it with emotional connotations not current in its authentic kind. The prevalence of “-pie” in such contexts highlights its effectiveness in creating phrases of endearment inside casual communication.
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Playful and Baby-Directed Language
Colloquialisms using “-pie” usually seem in playful or child-directed language. Phrases like “sleepy-pie” or “cutie-pie” exemplify this utilization, usually employed to create a lighthearted and affectionate tone. This software demonstrates how casual language adapts current morphemes to create new expressions tailor-made to particular communicative contexts, significantly these involving kids or playful interactions. The affiliation with child-directed language contributes to the notion of “-pie” phrases as mild and endearing.
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Emphasis and Intensification
In some colloquial contexts, “-pie” can operate as an intensifier, including emphasis to the bottom phrase. Whereas much less widespread than its use in diminutives, this operate highlights the suffix’s adaptability inside casual language. Examples like “okie-dokie,” the place “-dokie” (seemingly influenced by “-pie”) intensifies the affirmation, show this utilization. This operate, whereas delicate, contributes to the general expressive potential of “-pie” inside colloquial speech.
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Regional and Cultural Variations
Colloquialisms using “-pie” can exhibit regional and cultural variations. Particular phrases or expressions could also be distinctive to sure dialects or communities, reflecting the localized evolution of casual language. Documenting these variations supplies beneficial insights into the range of colloquial speech and the way particular linguistic options adapt to regional and cultural contexts. This regional range additional underscores the dynamic nature of colloquial language and its capability for localized innovation.
In abstract, the connection between colloquialisms and phrases ending in “-pie” reveals the dynamic interaction between formal and casual language. The “-pie” suffix, whereas current in established phrases like “magpie,” finds fertile floor in colloquial expressions, contributing to the creation of diminutives, phrases of endearment, and playful language. This adaptability highlights the suffix’s versatility and its capability to convey nuanced meanings inside casual communicative contexts. Inspecting these colloquial functions supplies a deeper understanding of how language evolves and adapts to particular social and emotional wants, enriching the general understanding of the “-pie” suffix throughout the broader context of English lexicon.
8. Fashionable Variations
Fashionable variations of language show the continual evolution of phrases, together with these ending in “-pie.” A number of elements contribute to those variations, together with evolving social contexts, technological influences, and the inherent dynamism of language itself. The emergence of latest phrases like “selfie-pie” (a selfie taken whereas consuming pie) exemplifies this course of, demonstrating how current morphemes mix with modern ideas to create novel expressions. This neologism leverages the established connotations of each “selfie” and “pie” to convey a particular that means inside a contemporary context. Equally, the playful adaptation of “magpie” to explain people who acquire or hoard particular objects showcases how current phrases purchase new meanings by way of metaphorical extension. This adaptability ensures language stays related and attentive to altering cultural traits.
The influence of social media and web tradition on language evolution performs a big position in fashionable variations. The speedy dissemination of neologisms and slang by way of on-line platforms accelerates the adoption of latest phrases and meanings. This accelerated tempo of change presents challenges for lexicographers and linguists trying to doc and analyze these evolving types. The ephemeral nature of some on-line traits additional complicates this activity, as phrases can emerge and disappear quickly. Regardless of these challenges, learning fashionable variations supplies beneficial insights into the dynamic nature of language and its responsiveness to cultural shifts. Analyzing these variations reveals how current linguistic constructions, just like the “-pie” suffix, are repurposed and recontextualized to precise modern ideas and experiences.
In abstract, fashionable variations of phrases ending in “-pie” spotlight the continual evolution of language. Components like evolving social contexts, technological influences, and the inherent creativity of language customers contribute to the emergence of latest phrases and meanings. Whereas these variations can current challenges for linguistic evaluation, they provide beneficial insights into the dynamic interaction between language and tradition. Understanding these processes enhances comprehension of how language adapts to precise modern experiences and contributes to a extra nuanced appreciation of lexical innovation. Moreover, learning these variations supplies a framework for anticipating future linguistic adjustments and understanding the continuing evolution of communication within the digital age.
Ceaselessly Requested Questions
This part addresses widespread inquiries relating to nouns ending in “-pie,” offering concise and informative responses.
Query 1: Past “magpie” and “okie-dokie,” are there different generally used phrases with this ending?
Whereas much less frequent, phrases like “cutie-pie” and “sweetie-pie” operate as phrases of endearment. “Occupie,” derived from “occupy,” seems much less ceaselessly in fashionable utilization. The restricted variety of widespread examples displays the particular and considerably constrained software of this suffix.
Query 2: Does the “-pie” suffix have a constant that means throughout completely different phrases?
The suffix doesn’t possess a single, universally relevant that means. Its operate varies relying on the phrase. In “magpie,” it contributes to a particular hen identify. In colloquial phrases like “sweetie-pie,” it conveys endearment. This useful variation necessitates contemplating every phrase inside its particular context.
Query 3: Is “-pie” a productive suffix, readily forming new phrases?
In comparison with suffixes like “-ness” or “-ing,” “-pie” demonstrates restricted productiveness. Whereas neologisms like “selfie-pie” sometimes emerge, the suffix doesn’t readily mix with a variety of bases to kind new phrases. This restricted productiveness contributes to the comparatively small variety of phrases ending in “-pie.”
Query 4: Are there regional variations within the pronunciation or utilization of those phrases?
Pronunciation of “magpie,” for example, can differ subtly throughout completely different dialects. Moreover, regional slang and colloquialisms would possibly make the most of “-pie” in methods not mirrored in normal dictionaries. These variations contribute to the wealthy range of language use throughout completely different geographical areas.
Query 5: What’s the etymological origin of the “-pie” suffix?
The suffix’s origins will be traced to the Latin “pica,” denoting a hen of the corvid household. This etymological root explains its presence in “magpie” and different bird-related phrases. The evolution of its utilization in colloquial phrases entails a extra complicated interaction of linguistic and cultural elements.
Query 6: How does the utilization of “-pie” phrases differ between formal and casual language?
“Magpie” maintains a constant presence in each formal and casual contexts on account of its operate as a typical hen identify. Colloquial phrases like “sweetie-pie,” nevertheless, primarily seem in casual settings, reflecting their operate as expressions of endearment. This distinction highlights the context-dependent nature of “-pie” phrases.
Understanding the nuances of phrases ending in “-pie” requires contemplating their etymology, utilization patterns, and semantic contexts. This consciousness facilitates more practical communication and a deeper appreciation for the complexities of language.
Additional exploration of particular “-pie” phrases and their utilization in numerous contexts will observe in subsequent sections.
Ideas for Efficient Communication
These pointers supply sensible methods for clear and concise communication, emphasizing precision and avoiding ambiguity.
Tip 1: Phrase Selection Precision
Choose vocabulary fastidiously, guaranteeing phrases convey the meant that means precisely. Keep away from generalizations and go for particular, concrete language. As an illustration, as an alternative of “hen,” specify “magpie” when referring to that individual species. This precision enhances readability and minimizes potential misinterpretations.
Tip 2: Contextual Consciousness
Take into account the communicative context when utilizing phrases with a number of interpretations. “Okie-dokie,” whereas acceptable in casual settings, could also be inappropriate in formal communication. Contextual consciousness ensures applicable language use and avoids unintended miscommunication.
Tip 3: Keep away from Overuse of Colloquialisms
Overreliance on colloquialisms, comparable to “cutie-pie,” can diminish readability, particularly in skilled or tutorial settings. Reserve such phrases for applicable casual contexts to take care of an expert tone and guarantee clear communication throughout various audiences.
Tip 4: Etymological Consciousness
Understanding a phrase’s etymology can improve communication by offering insights into its nuanced meanings. Recognizing the historic connection between “magpie” and the Latin “pica” informs understanding of the time period’s present utilization. Etymological consciousness strengthens vocabulary and fosters exact communication.
Tip 5: Adaptability to Viewers
Adapt language to the particular viewers to maximise comprehension and engagement. Technical terminology applicable for specialised audiences could also be unsuitable for broader audiences. Viewers evaluation ensures applicable language selections and fosters efficient communication throughout various teams.
Tip 6: Readability over Complexity
Prioritize readability over complicated sentence constructions or vocabulary. Whereas nuanced vocabulary enhances communication, prioritize clear conveyance of data. Keep away from overly complicated phrasing that will obscure that means, guaranteeing accessibility for a wider viewers.
Tip 7: Proofreading and Revision
Cautious proofreading and revision are important for efficient communication. Overview written communication to determine and proper any errors in grammar, spelling, or phrase selection. This follow ensures an expert presentation and minimizes potential misunderstandings.
Constant software of those rules strengthens communication, promotes readability, and ensures meant meanings are conveyed successfully. These practices foster professionalism, improve comprehension, and construct stronger communication abilities.
The next conclusion will synthesize these communication methods, providing a concise abstract of key takeaways for sensible software.
Conclusion
Evaluation of nouns concluding with “-pie” reveals a various but restricted subset throughout the English lexicon. Examination of etymology, utilization frequency, morphology, and semantic fields illuminates the various roles these phrases play, from denoting particular avian species (magpie) to conveying casual affirmation (okie-dokie). Understanding the historic growth and cultural context surrounding these phrases supplies essential insights into their present utilization and potential for future evolution. Furthermore, exploring regional variations, literary functions, and colloquial variations reveals the dynamic and adaptable nature of language itself, demonstrating how even seemingly easy suffixes contribute to a wealthy tapestry of communicative expression.
Continued investigation into the evolution and adaptation of such lexical objects stays essential for a complete understanding of linguistic processes. Additional analysis into the delicate nuances of those phrases and their interplay with broader linguistic traits will undoubtedly yield beneficial insights into the ever-evolving panorama of the English language. This pursuit fosters a deeper appreciation for the intricate connections between language, tradition, and human expression.
