Fun with Words

[The Jade Knight]

Okay, I don't know where to put this, but it relates to writing, so I'm sticking it here.

The point of this thread is to be a place for writers (or anyone who cares) to ask questions about words and how they're perceived, etc.  For example, one might debate about whether or not the individual sees "grey" and "gray" as having separate shades of meaning (I've known more than one person who has).


At any rate, to start off, I've got a question.

Would the term "muzzle and fangs" be redundant, in your opinion?  (In reference to a wolf)  In other words, does "muzzle" include fangs to the point that describing both would appear ludicrous?

[The Holy Saint, Grand High Poobah, Master of Monkeys, Ehlers]

I think you can have a friendly muzzle. My mother's dog, Abby, for example, certainly doesn't have fangs. However, she does have a muzzle. So yes, if you want to point out that this beast has long sharp teeth sticking out, you'll need to add in "fangs."

[Skar]

I'm with SE, muzzle does not automatically include fangs.  In fact, it rhymes with nuzzle.

[The Holy Saint, Grand High Poobah, Master of Monkeys, Ehlers]

"My dog nuzzled me with her muzzle" is a cute sentence.

[The Jade Knight]

I guess that works.

Thanks.