Quizzes & Puzzles21 mins ago
"Not one iota" , how much is an iota?
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... and why this particular greek letter? Anyone help with the origin of this phrase?
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A jot - from the Greek letter �iota' = �i' - means the least part of any writing. It can be applied to dots, strokes, Spanish tildes etc. A tittle is defined as a small stroke or point in writing. The two words are, effectively, synonyms, even though they are usually now combined in the phrase "not a jot or tittle".
In the same way, 'not one iota', therefore, means 'not the very least little bit'.
In the same way, 'not one iota', therefore, means 'not the very least little bit'.
... and why this particular greek letter?
Well, it is the smallest letter in the Greek alphabet, but there is an interesting alternative theory, here:
http://www.randomhouse.com/wotd/index.pperl?da te=20000223
Well, it is the smallest letter in the Greek alphabet, but there is an interesting alternative theory, here:
http://www.randomhouse.com/wotd/index.pperl?da te=20000223
Please note, Loosehead that the link Rojash provides makes it clear that the supposedly 'alternative theory' doesn't really hold water! It says (quote)...
"However, I haven't found any indication that this controversy has anything to do with the meaning of iota." (My italics)
The Oxford English Dictionary, for example, doesnt give it house-room.
"However, I haven't found any indication that this controversy has anything to do with the meaning of iota." (My italics)
The Oxford English Dictionary, for example, doesnt give it house-room.
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