I used to tell people I was big on being pedantic, but stopped because it had a negative connotation. Now I tell people I'm big on specificity. Words man.

Some people like to say words matter, actions matter more/speak louder than words and indicate behavior. But I say you can tell a lot about someone's mental state, how they approach life, and how they feel and view others by the words they choose.

I'll never forget a scenario where I described my opinion about something, and the other person claimed they felt insulted. They either don't know what that word means, or don't understand that people can share their opinions and it shouldn't really insult you. That's a You problem.

I gave my opinion about married military folk, and described the term ''dependapotamus" which, may or may not be derogatory, but you see the term through around a lot here on Reddit to describe a spouse that marries someone else in the service, relying on their benefits, while (cannot confirm or deny) cheating on them, or holding down the fort at home.

Immediately my partner says she's insulted and describes what she's seen when talking to people in those situations and that not everyone is like that.

I mean ... maybe it's just me, because I had constant cognitive dissonance at how someone so smart could be a Republican, but, if you're insulted, you either think high and mighty of yourself, that your shit doesn't stink, and expect everyone to bend to your will.

That's why I value the words I choose and try to be careful.