DISCOMFORT/DISCOMFIT

(A proofreader's note regarding “discomfort” and “discomfit”)

“Discomfort,” “discomfit,” the words of our study,
Though sharing their starting two-thirds,
Have different origins and meanings distinctive,
And one sense in common for nerds.

“Discomfit” came first as a verb that was special;
Misuse as “discomfort” was next.
And given “unease” at the core of the latter,
This sense of “discomfit” was blest.

But rooted in meaning “undo and completely,”
“Discomfit” is much more intense;
To “thwart” or “frustrate” and “perplex” or “embarrass”--
These verbs with “discomfit” are friends.

And thus as a verb our “discomfit” will function
In most of its cases and clues.
Though subtly alluring the same-sounding noun,
“Discomfiture” is favored in use.

“Discomfort,” in contrast, as noun is most offered,
The other form less often found;
A “state of uneasiness, mental or physical,”
Its meaning is simple and sound.

“'Discomfit' the word was the teacher's new topic;
Its focus more mental, her theme.
The slides on the screen with a view to 'discomfit'
Were planned to elicit a scream.”

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