New Assignment
Earlier today in a meeting I heard the word administrate used more than 3 times and it got me to thinking. (Yes, occasionally I do use the organ between my ears.) Anyway, I am not sure if that is even a word, and if it is, what its usage should be. I can’t understand how it would be any different than “administer,” which sounds like the proper verb for the scenario.
I found that the word exists on dictionary.com, but is this a usage thing, where people’s ignorance pervaded for so long that they added it?
Tell me what you know and what you can dig up about this word.
Chris Said,
June 30, 2003 @ 2:26 pm
I know the two words are synonyms, but there’s a subtle difference. When I use it, “administer” has a smaller scope. One can administer an antidote or administer a program. “Administrate” is broader and more bureaucratic. “He administrates the postage optimization efforts for the billing accuracy department.” Plus, “administrate” makes you sound like an idiot. I never use it.