This, That, and the Other

“So, did you learn a new word today?” Bonnie’s mother asked her. “It’s part of our home schooling curriculum, since the schools haven’t opened for on-site classes yet because of the pandemic.”

“Yes I did,” Bonnie said proudly. “The word I learned is ‘schmutzwortshuche.’ Isn’t that a great word?”

“What language is that, Bonnie?” her mother asked. “You’re supposed to learn new English words. That sounds German.”

“It means looking up rude words in the dictionary,” Bonnie explained. “Isn’t that cool?”

“First of all, Bonnie, you’re seven years old. You shouldn’t be using this assignment to look up rude words. Second of all, the object of this exercise is for you to look up words that you can use in everyday life that will expand your vocabulary and will help you to more effectively verbalize your thoughts and ideas. It’s not intended for you to find esoteric words that nobody ever uses.”

“Oh, don’t be such a martyr, Mom.” Bonnie said, with a smile. “That’s the new word I learned yesterday.”

“I don’t think you know what that word means, Bonnie,” her mother said. “A martyr is someone who is killed because of their religious or other beliefs.”

“Oh, okay. Sorry about that,” Bonnie said. “That’s good to know. Thanks for the gratuity.”

“For the gratuity?” Bonnie’s mother said. “What are you talking about?”

“Yeah,” said Bonnie. “I learned that one on Monday. It means ‘tip.’ So thanks for the tip.”

Written for these daily prompts: Jibber Jabber (learn), Word of the Day Challenge (schmutzwortshuche), The Daily Spur (language), Fandango’s One-Word Challenge (verbal), Ragtag Daily Prompt (martyr), and Your Daily Word Prompt (gratuity).