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Category: ChanteSez Tip of the Day

ChanteSez … We’re going ‘up’!

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Looking up is always the right direction. Here are a few examples of how you can get going the right way when it comes to “up” words. You’ll find that hyphens are often used.

  • mix up: two words as a verb. For example, “I’m going to mix up a batch of cookies.”
  • mix-up: hyphenated as an adjective or noun. For example, “Please pardon the mix-up.”
  • setup: one word as a noun or adjective. As in, “What kind of crazy setup did they have at the event?”
  • set up: two words as a verb. For example, “I need you to set up that meeting, please.”
  • start up: two words as a verb. “Start up the car; I’ll be out in a minute.”
  • start-up: hyphenated as an adjective or noun. “The small start-up was known for being nimble and innovative.”

ChanteSez … I could use a million bucks!

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I don’t know about you, but I could use a million bucks. Now here’s a question: Is there a difference between a million bucks and $1 million?

If you’re thinking that one is wild game, I guess you’re technically correct.

But I’m thinking more in terms of colloquialisms such as “bucks” and “ducats” vs. dollar-dollar bills.

When you’re referring to actual, countable dollar amounts, use the dollar symbol ($). Another tip: Don’t double up on the dollars. There’s no need to repeat “dollars” if you’re using the dollar sign. (Wrong: I could use $1 million dollars.)

If you’re generalizing or making grand statements, drop the dollar sign and use whatever slang term you want.

Here are a few examples:

The foundation raised more than $1.5 million as a direct result of her leadership.

“This deficit situation is beyond my imagination. I can’t even think of what a billion trillion dollars looks like.”

The price for a new Porsche Panamera ranges from $78,100 and $161,100 depending on the features.

Now let’s go make millions!