Stories from the Sales Frontlines

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Comments

  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 14,158
    RIchard....I'm with driver100. With the new shaving gels, it's darn near impossible to really nick yourself with a blade. My big beef is the cost of the blades these days. I finally stopped at 3 blades, which are expensive, but now they're up to 4 blades, which are outrageous.

    While I still, every once in awhile use my shaving gel and Mach blades, these days I use an electric. I started with Remington. But, as most point out, they don't last long and are less comfortable. For years I used triple Norelco. They did a decent job and were more comfortable than the Remingtons. But then, I got one of those really high end Braun electrics (Series 7) for Christmas this year (I think I saw it at BB&B for about $200). It's a foil razor that comes with a base that cleans the razor, too. Very slick. Comfortable, and just a whisker away from being as close of a shave as a blade.

    Electric razors really hold to the adage you get what you pay for. The more expensive ones last longer, shave closer, and are more comfortable than their cheaper brethren.

    May I also strongly suggest you use good 'old "'Lectric Shave" to pre-treat your beard before shaving. It makes a big difference.
    2024 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD Long Range
  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    and the latest triple blades it is almost impossible to damage your skin

    Back in the 70's when the double blade razors came out Saturday Night Live did one of their parody commercials for a three blade razor with the tag line "Three blades because you will believe anything".

    IMHO these are still the best for a nice close shave

    image

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    Yeah, and if you need a murder weapon those are much better than a Mach3!

    I remember he old SNL razor commercial. Funny how yesterday's comedy becomes today's reality.

    That Norelco 9160XL is very close to what I have. The only difference may be the color. It's the best electric I've had and, contrary to other reports, you do get some things different for your money. The are different heads than the old standard rotary heads and work closer and more quickly while still being as kind to your face.

    standard rotary blade

    fancier rotary blade

    On the Braun - I had one Braun once. of the foils it was the quietest and did as good a job as any electric. Mine died pretty young (disclosure - t was on the low end of what they make). other than that it was fine.

    Of course the whole shaving industry is based on the fact that we like new gadgets and are always looking for the next better mousetrap.
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • jwilliams2jwilliams2 Member Posts: 910
    I wish someone made an electric razor pre-shave that was scent free. The scent of the ones I've tried drives me crazy even after washing or showering after use. I've not been able to find one. Can anyone offer a suggestion?
  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    Gee, I could make a suggestion but it would be a terrible one. Plain old alcohol would do the trick but would dry out your poor face on a hurry.

    Actually if you have an after shave that you like (I'm partial to Pinaud Clubman - the stuff you see in the barber shop) that will more or less do the trick. Just put it on before shave....
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • Sandman6472Sandman6472 Member Posts: 7,256
    Since I'm home now, shave about every 5 days, as I don't see the need. But when I was at work, only shaved every 4 or so days...none of my customers ever complained. A friend of mine got a Titanium razor ftom Shick...he seems to like it.

    The Sandman :) :sick: :shades:

    2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)

  • tallman1tallman1 Member Posts: 1,874
    I've tried 'Lectric Shave but it didn't help me as much as I thought it would. I'm a huge fan of Remington Face Saver. It is a hard powder in a cylindrical stick that you rub on your face and then spread around with your fingers. It is hard to find in stores now but mine lasts for years. (I'm one of those semi-retired guys who doesn't shave every day.) They sell it online in singles and in 6-packs.

    Since it is dry, it is easier on my face than those alcohol-based products and it washes away or blows out of the shaver heads easily. It also doesn't gum up your shaver heads like liquid lubricants can.

    I do agree with gg in that you do need some sort of pre-shave. If there is any humidity or if your face isn't completely dry when you go to shave with an electric, you will suffer without one.
  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 268,149
    ...don't use electrics...

    Or, women either, for that matter... right, Kirstie?

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  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    Oh, nonsense. of course silly me still uses both at times because on those places where I don't just let it grow i like to make it look like it wasn't there in the first place....

    Actually for drying out I'll sometimes use just a little talcum powder. It'll disappear as you shave over it and it does the trick.

    richard is probably out kicking the blades on a few today.
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • tallman1tallman1 Member Posts: 1,874
    See? I told you that one had to be macho to use a blade! ;)
  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    "richard is probably out kicking the blades on a few today."

    No, I was going to read all of the posts first before I hit the razor lots. I'm getting a lot of good advice from you guys. I'm very fair and have sensitive skin---lots of skin conditions. I sure don't want a razor that will break me out or cause a rash. The powder pre-treat will probably help with that.

    Richard
  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    "FWIW, it would be very cruel to see pictures of that old man with a shaven head and a three day stubble."

    You are so right. And to think that I was once a model referred to as the "handsome guy" on the runway. :cry: :sick: :shades: Father Time and Mother Nature can be beasts! :mad:

    Richard
  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    Better watch out for driver's comments if you have skin issues. He's strictly a feel of the face guy.
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • Sandman6472Sandman6472 Member Posts: 7,256
    I've had a moustache for over 34 years now and back in November decided to grow a goatee, but it made me look like a mini schnauser & itched terribly. But I stuck it out and still have it. I do have a hard time maintaining it so last time I went to my barber, found an old fashioned barber shop who only charges $10 a pop, I asked him to make it just like his, which he did so it's shaped much better. Now every time I go back, he'll just clean it up for me. I usually go for a haircut every 7 to 8 weeks since it's very thick on the back & sides & getting thin on the top. The wife thinks I go too often which I don't agree with. How often do the rest of you guys go? Just curious.

    I'm lucky to have the hair I've got left, my twin & dying older brother are basically totally bald with that little rim around their sides & back...same as my dad & his dad. I feel truly very lucky to have what I still have & hope my boy gets to keep his hair...so far, so good!

    My older brother whom I'm dealing with over the stupid trust is terminal, as I found out last night. Pancreatic & lung cancer which is spreading. Even though we have no relationship any more, I still feel bad for him & did text him a few weeks ago to offer wishes for a speedy recovery. Guess it ain't gonna happen. Cancer seems to run in our family...sister died of it in '07 at 57 but she smoked all her adult life & my twin lost an eye to it back in 1982. Dad got lukemia back before he died of complications in 1986 & his brother died of cancer back in '04...not a good track record huh!

    So now we've hit on religion, appliances, antiques, razors, cars & now haircuts & cancer...I'd say we've certainly run the gamet of different topics in here! :)
    The Sandman :) :sick: :shades:

    2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)

  • tallman1tallman1 Member Posts: 1,874
    I usually go for a haircut every 7 to 8 weeks

    Wow, I'd be pretty shaggy by then. I go once a month. I can get by with 5 weeks but that's all I'll push it.
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    "Three blades because you will believe anything".

    I am waiting until they have the new 10 blade model, you will have to use two hands just to hold it.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    driver's comments if you have skin issues. He's strictly a feel of the face guy.

    For the best handling and cornering, nothing beats a Mach 3 and a can of Edge Super hydrant!

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    A lot of the drug stores sell British shave cream in a tube. Good stuff.

    I'll get my hair cut twice a year at least whether I need it or not...

    A couple of year ago I figured I might as well let it grow now while I still have some of it. I may be approaching a limit soon...

    I can't go to my old barber for the beard because he'd attack my hair.....
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    now we've hit on religion, appliances, antiques, razors, cars & now haircuts & cancer.

    You forgot about condos....I have to give an update on the Florida condo;

    We put in our last bid for condo number but after a few days she wrote back and said she decided she couldn't part with her home. She may change her mind in the Fall and she will sell it to us at that price if she does sell, which was about 5% below asking...but included the furniture.

    The other unit, held by the bank would cost about $24k less, but does not include furniture or appliances....needs paint and for some reason they took all the doors. Otherwise seems fine and it is a little larger and has a better floor plan. The banks real estate agent says there are two offers and they are over the asking price. We have put in a bid of $10k below their asking price. If we get it that will be a very good price, if we don't we will wait.

    Important lesson....it is much better going through a real estate company than dealing with a private sale. The rules are all there, all the items are outlined, the rules don't keep changing.

    We did sign about 30 pages of legaleze...including things like you are warned the seller (bank) takes no responsibility for dry wall made in China. But that was done after 2004 and these were built in 2001.

    image

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    A couple of year ago I figured I might as well let it grow now while I still have some of it.

    I know a guy who said he wasn't getting any more haircuts because right after the haircut his hair might stop growing.

    I went to the barber once about 14 years ago and his new assistant did such a terrible job...my wife has been doing it ever since. She does it fast, in about 6 minutes and does it just the way I want it. Also, no tipping!

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • bolivarbolivar Member Posts: 2,316
    I've always used blades. But my father had a Norelco. I took an old one of his and tried to use it. It ate my neck up like a Zombie. When he passed away, I took his final Norelco and probably tried it a time or two with the same result.

    My wife took it for occasionally use. I'm pretty sure I put a new set of blades and foil (triple head) on it. This was a lot of years ago. A couple months ago she asked if I could make a present of a new set of blades for this thing.

    Ok, off to eBay and Amazon. I find out that Norelco doesn't exist any more. Or, it's been sold to someone. I do know Norelco does not sell triple head blades/foils any more. They are there to buy, but some after market company makes them. And the best price I could find was about $25.

    On Amazon I find a ladies pink Panasonic wet/dry rechargable razor. Most reviews I find are very good, with the occasional one that says it failed in 3 days. Like anything you are buying, you will always find these. Cost was $26.24, shipping included. Throw this thing away and get a new one when its blades get dull.
  • tjc78tjc78 Member Posts: 17,134
    I am pretty suprised at the amount of people using electrics. I have never even tried one! I just use whatever nice disposables are on sale.

    As for hair cuts, I'm a "buzz cut" guy and my GF does mine about every two weeks (10 days or so in the summer) she usually does it first thing in the morning before I shower. Very convenient. Also very cost effective. The clipper has long since paid for it self.

    Cancer really seems to effect all families. My paternal grandfather and my father both were victims to it. I was certainly surprised that even at the young age of 32 I have had my fight with it already. Mine was easily cured (with surgery) and my radiation sessions were short lived thank goodness.

    Last July we lost my GF's father due to his Colo-rectal cancer returning and that was hard to watch. No person should be made to suffer like that.

    2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic / 2022 Icon I6L Golf Cart

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    I am pretty suprised at the amount of people using electrics. I have never even tried one!

    I am surprised at how many around here use electric razors too. So, I found out that 30% of men use electrics. Some good facts;

    Electric Shavers vs. Manual Shavers

    When looked at statistically, a relatively small percentage of people actually use electric razors. The numbers are about 10 percent of females and 30 percent of males.

    Some of the reasons that the numbers are so low may have to do with the following facts:

    * Most believe that the closest shave can only be achieved by a manual razor.
    * Electric razors can cause ingrown hairs.
    * Disposable razors or razor blades are not as expensive as the electric version.

    However… there are also many benefits to using electric razors, including:

    * Electric shavers can be used anywhere and anytime
    * It's extremely difficult to get nicked or cut with an electric razor.
    * They contain more features that can easily be used for sideburns and moustaches/beards.
    Shaving

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    edited March 2011
    More reasons I prefer blades;
    *Probably takes 1 to 2 minutes to shave,
    *You know what you have done......because the lather marks what has been done and what hasn't,
    *Go over a spot once, it is done, none of this back and forth in different directions,
    *Feels fresher and cleaner
    *No expensive parts to replace, cleaning or servicing.
    *No charging or running out of power,
    *You are using a fresh blade about every 2 weeks (Mach 3 Turbos have a strip that comes off when it is time to start a new one).

    Women may think an electric is easier and cleaner - but it really isn't!

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • houdini1houdini1 Member Posts: 8,356
    Same here with the buzz cut and my wife has done the honors for the last 40 years. I can do it myself if I have to...not that much to cut!

    My wife drags home an electric razor for me about once a year. I like the idea of them and will always try a new one for a couple of days, but then back to the blade. Current favorite blade is Gillette 2 blade disposable. 50 pack from Costco.

    Driver, I just bought a bank owned property that son#2 and I will rehab this Spring. Already started by putting up new garage doors yesterday. He's a lot handier than I am and will do most of the work.

    This is my first venture into fixing up a house to resell so if anyone has any tips or experience, I am all ears.

    2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,350
    "... The banks real estate agent said there are two offers and they are over the asking price..."

    If you have learned anything on this forum it is to not believe the sales person when they say they have a couple of other buyers in the wings.

    Stick to your guns and don't be afraid to walk.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,350
    "...surprised at the number of people using electric..."

    I'm with you. The electric used to chew up my neck and never got really close. When I grew a beard in 1977 it became impossible to trim with an electric so I went with a razor.

    As for haircuts I just get it cut real short every couple of months. With the amount of hair I have left I may have to pull out my copy of "The Jipst Method--Haircut Edition" and ask for a discount.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 14,158
    edited March 2011
    driver....I must have a really tough beard. No way I'd be able to get 2 weeks out of a manual blade. 3-4 shaves....MAX. And, that 4th one really chewed up my face.

    My GF has threatened me to cut my hair. But, I get this mental image she'll plant a bowl on top of my head and trim around it. ;)

    I go to a 3 chair shop to get my hair cut. It's owned by 3 women....no coloring, no women, just guys. No appointments. You walk in. Wait your turn....15-20 minute max. Unless you're bound and determined to only use one of them, you'll wait a little longer. I've been in the chair with all 3 of them. They cut my hair the same. They use a straight edge to trim my neck and sideburns (no electrics). They massage my head when they're done. $11 per hair cut. I give them $15. Been using them for years. I could go to a "SALON", spend twice as much, but still wouldn't get a better haircut.
    2024 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD Long Range
  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,350
    edited March 2011
    "...This is my first venture...if anyone has any tips..."

    Having done a couple of apartments, a barn and built one house I can say I hope you have a strong marriage because it will strain it.

    Expect it to cost twice as much and take twice as long as you planned.

    When you are done you will have a pride in your accomplishment that is second to none.

    Only you will notice all the mistakes you made. ;)

    Most important: Measure TWICE, cut ONCE.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,350
    "...No way I'd be able to get 2 weeks out of a manual blade..."

    Money guru Clark Howard says that blades go dull because of rust, not use. He says that if you dry off the blade after each use it will last 6 months.

    I tried that and I didn't get 6 months of use but it did double the life span of the blades.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 268,149
    Finally... some useful info from Clark Howard... ;)

    I'll have to try that....

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  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    Norelco most assuredly still exists and they make replacements heads, They are part of Phillips now.

    I can go to the local Wal Mart or Target and both stock the replacement parts.

    I need a place like gg goes to for his hair cuts. Too many barbers don't like long hair and do everything in their power to dispose of it.

    I used to go to this real from Italy Italian barber. He always cut it shorter than I wanted it but the entertainment value was well worth it. I could also go longer between haircuts with it looking very presentable than any other barber I ever knew. Unfortunately he died from idiot doctors that didn't know what they were doing. Fell while clearing ice off the sidewalk of his shop. Broke his arm. Hospital said he needed surgery to fix that. Didn't ask if he was on blood thinners. He was. Bled to death.
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    We have done 14 houses for re-sale, so I may know a little about such a venture. First, listen to Oldfarmer. Regardless of your budget, it will cost more and take longer than you think. Other tips:

    1. Use neutral colors in paint. Exceptions: I love a dark red dining room because it brings out the patina in the antique furniture. Also, we like a yellow kitchen. I always offer in writing to repaint thiose two rooms for the buyer.

    2. Use quality materials---cheapness shows.

    3. Bathroom sink fixtures---stay away from brass. It's out. Go with the pewter look.

    4. Light fixtures---same as #3.

    5. Good tile beats carpet in casual areas---easier to clean and lasts longer.

    6. Bedrooms---People like carpet in neutral colors---cocoa is a nice color because it isn't too light to show dirt, but isn't too dark for the natural lighting.

    7. Kitchen appliances---GE makes the "no fingerprints" stainless which is actually cheapeer than most brands but looks as good. Black appliances are a second choice---white is out but making a come back.

    8. Don't try your own plumbing or electrical work unless you are damn good at it---and you aren't ! You're like me. You're lucky if you can change a bulb.

    9. If it's a house, curb appeal is everything---nice walkway, driveway, steps, and porch. Stamped concrete in many pattterns---makes a beautiful walkway and is cheaper than brick, stone, or slate. Some new shrubs and sod pay for themselves.

    10. Hardwood floors---wonderful way to get a higher resale price.

    11. Moldings and chair railings in bathrooms, dining rooms, etc. add quality, and money to your purse---for a very low cost.

    12. Hiring a good carpenter and tile man are worth every penny---hire by the job, not by the hour.

    13. Add 20% to your budget---believe me, you'll spent it.

    14. Never pay a workman up front---one third in the beginning, one third half way through the job, and one third upon completion---after your inspection.

    15. If it's not your own home, go with the two inch faux wood blinds for windows. If it is your own home, use the real thing and planter's shutters if possible. Watch out---planter's shutters are beautiful but very expensive. They run between $300 and $500 per window.

    16. Kitchen and bath countertops---use solid surface. granite is cheaper than Corian. I still love beautiufl tile, but many buyers don't.

    17. HVAC system---check the unit for life capacity and check the ductwork.

    18. Roof---patch or replace? How much life is remaining?

    19. Foundation and pillars---cracks, water damage, etc.?

    20. Garage floor---need a fresh coat of paint?

    21. Kitchen cabinets---Need new, just a refinish, or maybe just a cleaning with Scott's Liquid Gold?

    22. Average utility bills---get a two year printout from your electrical and water companies.

    23. Extra insulation---$500 bucks well spent.

    24. Don't over price your project for the neighborhood.

    25. Keep DETAILED records---an absolute must!

    Good luck---and be especially nice to your wife. This is a project with stress that you haven't encountered before. It can be fun, but there will be some disagreements.

    Richard
  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    "...and for sosme reason they took all of the doors."

    Well, that takes care of the old saying, "Don't let the door kick you in the [non-permissible content removed] on your way out." :P

    Richard
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,672
    seems that people getting foreclosed these days take everything. Doors, light fixtures, cabinets, literally anything that can be removed and possibly reused.

    DIY network has a show on now called "the vanilla ice project". Basically a flipper show, down in palm beach Fla. The house they did this year was a waterfront "mansion" (7,000 SF I think). Beautiful place, bought from a bank.

    The interior though was practically gutted. They took everything. Stripped the kitchen, light switches (not just fixtures), plumbing fixtures, railings, etc.

    Probably saved them a little money on demo at least!

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    Driver, I just bought a bank owned property that son#2 and I will rehab this Spring.

    Fortunately, my BIL is in Florida from early November until mid March and he loves doing that DIY stuff. I am totally incapable of doing those things. I like Oldfarmers measure twice cut once, I usually get impatient and cut, then have to go out and buy a new one.

    Richard's tips sound very worthwhile. People love hardwood and carpeting is frowned on these days. I think of carpets as walking on your clothes all day long and washing them maybe once a year...not to mention allergies and small particles floating around. the 2 small bedrooms in the bank sale property have old dirty carpets...we will replace with hardwood or if a lot less expensive tile is really nice these days...and practical.

    I have no plan to make a profit on this property, but some of those bank held properties seem to be very good buys. How much lower can prices go? I think a lot of people will be sorry they gave up their property...it is still a great investment to pay your house off and live rent free in later years.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    "...and for sosme reason they took all of the doors."
    Well, that takes care of the old saying, "Don't let the door kick you in the [non-permissible content removed] on your way out."


    That's funny. I like the old Bob Newhart recording when the boss says, "Any time you have a problem just come to me, the door is always open.....someone stole that a few weeks ago".

    I remember a friend buying a house and the previous owners took every light bulb and roll of toilet paper.....you'd think they could leave you a few things just to get you started in your new home.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • houdini1houdini1 Member Posts: 8,356
    edited March 2011
    Wow, Richard ! Thanks for that comprehensive list. I just printed it out. I guess I won't be smearing on a little paint and planting a for sale sign huh? :)

    Seriously, we got a great buy on this little house in a good middle class neighborhood. We put in new garage doors yesterday. We will be cleaning and painting next week. We plan on trying to salvage the original hardwood floors (currently covered with dirty carpet). It has a fairly long driveway, which will probably be our biggest expense.

    Also thanks for your sage advice oldfarmer.

    This forum is one heck of a resource for good advice from people I trust. That is rather remarkable considering I have never personally met anyone here!!

    2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460

  • houdini1houdini1 Member Posts: 8,356
    On a golf telecast I am currently watching on TV, one of the players had "finish strong" written on his ball. Johnny Miller said he did that once and got letters saying it should be "finish strongly".

    Now technically, I know "strongly" is correct...but it just does not have the impact that "strong" has. Any special rules apply here?

    Remember the Bruce Willis "Die Hard" movies? Should that be "Die Hardly"? Not only does it sound wrong, but, in that case, it changes the entire meaning !!

    What say ye, on these important grammar matters 'O Master?

    2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460

  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    People often make the mistake of assuming that every adverb must end in "ly"---not so. In the term "Finish strong.", ask yourself the usual question for adverbs---finish how? Answer: Finish strong---adverb. It's the same with "Die hard." Die how?---Die hard. Secondly, we have to look at the words in context. What is the intent of the message here? The intent is to give the imperative sense---a strong command. (You) finish strong. (You) die hard. Thirdly, we have to consider any colloquial meaning as it pertains to the English language---especially in the United States. We often use terms and phrases of emphasis to make a concise and direct point. To me, it seems rather silly to write letters of complaint to correct something that either doesn't need to be corrected or stands very well on its own. IMHO, it destroys the richness of the meaning to be such a stickler on the absolute correctness of the phrase. Now, I have probably only confused you.

    Richard
  • houdini1houdini1 Member Posts: 8,356
    Richard, you amaze me. You must have been a great teacher. You should write a book, if you haven't already. That explanation was masterful !!

    2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460

  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    I always figure that if "die hard" was good enough for George Washington it's good enough for me.

    On his deathbed he told the doctor "I die hard but I am not afraid to go."

    Richard is indeed our king of grammar.
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • Sandman6472Sandman6472 Member Posts: 7,256
    I heard Clark say the same thing...I dry mine off after each shave with a blow dryer & it seems to work. Mine last about 3 months. I have a Gillette Fusion with 5 blades & a Schick Hydro with the 5 blades...both work very nicely actually. But now, I shave once a week & it's enough since I'm semi-retired.
    The Sandman :) :sick: :shades:

    2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)

  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    edited March 2011
    I do hope that you can salvage the hardwood floors. When you pull up the carpet, they may be in great shape. If not, they may just need a new buffing. Even if you have to do a refinish, it won't cost as much as putting in the floors. Check around. You may be able to get a refinish for around $1,500.

    As for the driveway, it will be a big ticket item. I've done concrete, asphalt, brick and rock. Rock is cheaper than the others---but still $3k to $4k depending on the length of that long drive. I only did designer brick once. You don't even want to know the cost. BTW, you may want to put curbing around that long rock drive. It comes in several colors and, believe it or not, it isn't too expensive. I curbed our entire long drive and parking pad for $925. We picked a light tan color that goes with the walkway and house brick. We were very pleased.

    Keep us posted.

    Richard
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    . Now, I have probably only confused you.

    Didn't confuse me one bit, in fact I really enjoyed reading your explanation. I am sure I would have had much higher marks in English if I had a teacher with your ability. Your explanation "rocks", or should that be "was rocking"?

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    Just imagine if he'd been your spelling teacher! :D
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    He might have needed a little help with the "feel of the letters". :P

    Richard
  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    Your explanation "rocks"...

    Your sentence is a case in point. Whether you call them idioms, conventional usage, or slang---it's all dictated by society. If people use the term or phrase long enough, then it is to hell with English experts. It WILL become acceptable, though it may take some time to do it. "Die Hard" was/is a popular movie. "Finish strong" is a popular golf phrase. While we know that they don't exactly fit the current rules, they are still used by many. That is the beauty of the English language. It has a measure of flexibility and can change with the times. Also, there is formal and informal usage. In a formal business letter for example, you might say, "Your explanation is quite clear to me." Informally, you simply used the term "rocks".

    There will always be a place for the standard written word. There simply has to be a sound foundation and structure for a language. At the same time, there has to be room for color, imagination, and richness in any language.

    Richard
  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 14,158
    Kirstie or kyfdx.....just curious if you know what the Edmunds editors know about Trucar.com. Seems they've really come on strong as a pricing site, seemingly affiliated with some dealerships. I'll assume that dealerships, in addition to agreeing on a pre-determined price, also has to pay to be listed as one of their "accredited dealers".

    In a way, Trucar kind of competes with Edmund's TMV.
    2024 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD Long Range
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    That is the beauty of the English language. It has a measure of flexibility and can change with the times

    Everybody remember that! When I make a grammatical or spelling error (fezo) I am just adding to the richness and texture of the English language.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

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