Word Usage

[p_gorsky]

I was wondering if the words precipitous and pernicious are used correctly in this sentence.

My precipitous decision to get into a relationship with Henry resulted in a pernicious heartbreak.

Thanks!

[tommywallach]

Hey Gorsky,

Well, these sentences don't really tell me what you think the words mean, but I'll do my best. "Precipitous" means "hasty" (in the way you seem to be using it) and "pernicious" means harmful. It's not a great work to describe a heartbreak, which isn't really "pernicious" by definition. You'd need to describe how it actually did damage (beyond being kinda sad) to use that word.

Hope that helps!

-t

[tommywallach]

Just to be clear, "precipitous" looks good, "pernicious" is a little off.

-t

[p_gorsky]

That's what I thought. Thanks!

[tommywallach]

Glad to help!

-t