Why do people over-use the word "brew" when they mean "tea or coffee"? I know "brew" is only one syllable, but in nearly every example of this usage, it is intended to convey something about the speaker which I find utterly unnecessary and nauseating.
"Tea" and "coffee" are scientific terms to do with infusions made with hot water. "Brew" imports extraneous emotional connotations. The person who asks, "Would you like some tea?" is offering to do you a favour. On the contrary, the twister who asks, "Would you like a brew?" expects something in return.
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What is someone who asks if you want a brew wanting in return then? I don't understand.
Not that i use the term "brew" myself but surely different people use different words to mean different things. Have you done U211 by any chance? I signed up for that course but then changed at the last minute, but watching some of the dvd materials on the development of the English language was really fascinating.
I must admit though, I used to find the same thing really annoying with the term "hoover". We always called it a vacuum, not hoover which is brand and that used to irritate me the same way.
Though doesn't some character in Alice in Wonderland or Through the looking glass (can't remember which) say that when they use a word it means exactly what they want it to mean. Just some rambling thoughts to add.
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The bit about wanting something in return was related to the behaviour of people in my workplace. I have noticed a pattern whereby the people who say, "Do you want some tea?" merely think you are in need of refreshment, but those who say, "Do you fancy a brew?" are about to ask you to do something - often something unreasonable.
I have not done U211 but it is on my list of courses to consider.
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Interesting that you've noticed this pattern in you workmates, I wouldn't have thought of that. I may still do U211 at some point. It looks like a good course and since I already have the materials I could make an early start on it over the summer maybe, but I seem to change my mind about which modules to do on a daily basis. There are so many great courses to choose from.