[at-l] Southern English

[hikester@mindspring.com (Lynn Setzer)]

Geez -- in regard to that sacred mother tongue -- I hope this one hasn't
come by.

You'll know you're talking with a true Southerner with said person
understands the nuances in meaning between "could," "might" and "might
could."  I offer the following for your consideration.

"I could do that," replied Sara as she prepared to climb the rock.

"I might do that," joined Pat as she stood back and surveyed the situation.

"I might could do that, too" chimed in Bobbie Ann.


Being a Southerner, I do cherish that "might could" formation!

"Might could" is not to be confused with "moan back," which is the standard
direction you give someone who's preparing to drive in reverse.

Lynn