The old man
The use of such words as dad, daddy, mam, mammy, the old man, the old woman, when applied to parents, not only indicates a lack of refinement, but shows positive disrespect. The words pap, pappy, governor, etc., are also objectionable. After the first lispings of childhood the words papa and mamma, properly accented, should be insisted upon by parents, and at the age of twelve or fifteen the words father and mother should be substituted and ever after used, as showing a proper respect on the part of children.
Great big
“He gave me a great big apple.” This is a colloquialism that should be avoided. Use large.
Argue, Augur
“The hollow whistling of the wind among the trees argues an approaching storm.” Use augurs.
Barbaric, Barbarous
Barbaric refers to a people; barbarous to their low state of life and their habits of cruelty.
Cut in half
A colloquialism in very frequent use. “I will cut this melon in half and share it with you.” Say, cut in two, or cut in halves, or cut in two parts.