Nauseous or Nauseated? (and a Joshua Radin Song)
You know I got your back, right? Well, I’m letting you in on a little secret, or so it seems, because I very rarely hear or read the word nauseous used correctly. That includes published books. You’d think the editors, after years of experience, would catch it.
Granted, there is some discussion as to Has it changed in the past few years?
Why don’t you be the judge.
When you feel like vomiting, you say, “I feel nauseated.” When something causes nausea, it is said to be nauseous. Most people (and characters in books) say, “I feel nauseous.” What they are saying, in reality, is “I feel that I cause other people nausea” or “I am nauseating.” I know it’s a subtle change, but the meaning is worlds apart.
Think about it. Mind-boggling, isn’t it, when you hear it for the first time?
I’m writing again today, so the grammar genie is hovering…
This song is not nauseous. Therefore, we will end on this upbeat, optimistic note…I’ll be okay. Here’s Joshua Radin’s “Brand New Day.”
Have a lovely, splendiferous, fantastic, wonderful, gorgeous, unbelievable day!