• machination
    DEFINITION: (noun) A crafty scheme or cunning design for the accomplishment of a sinister end. SYNONYMS: intrigue. USAGE: During his early youth he had to contend against the machinations of a malignant uncle, who would have robbed him of his large possessions. Discuss […]
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"my boss is demented "

No, not _my_ boss, really but I’ve heard this story from a native american friend who started teaching a new group – a team of clerks and their supervisor.

He asked each of them to say something about one of the others and everything went fine until one of the ladies said:
“And he is very dement…ing” pointing at the supervisor.
Now my friend, being a good teacher shot a quick hint before he could even think about it.
“-ed”
“Yes, he is demented” the girl corrected herself
“Ummm… he does not… look… demented” the teacher tried to smooth things down sensing the coming storm
“Oh yes, but I am demented” asserted the supervisor himself

What else could they have done not really aware of the difference between “dement” and “demand”.