2001connections-article0001 A fresh look at #1, #2, #3 in everyday life.

2001connections-article0001
A fresh look at #1, #2, #3 in everyday life.

Enough talk about #1 already! Let’s hear it for #3! The phrase “number one” is probably among the most frequently overused, misused and abused expressions that ever existed in the English language. And who said that 1 is a lonely number, anyway? The numeral "1" is unbelievably common in everyday use. A few stores actually have this numeral printed or super-imposed on their display signs and/or within their company logo. Some commercial establishments seem to conflict with each other in their quest to claim the #1 designation. I recall one instance where at least 2 different radio stations in the same city called themselves #1. Which of the two is real and which is fake? Can this question be resolved objectively? Perhaps we should appoint a neutral referee in such cases. Clearly, one of these two is probably number two. Or even number three. Let us place more emphasis on the 3rd place finisher. The bronze medallist, if you like. And maybe 4th place = copper medal, and 5th place = aluminum.

I routinely avoid interacting with any organization whose business name includes the word “one” or “first”. Although such outfits are increasingly common, have you noticed?
Curiously, I have little or no reservation about dealing with firms whose description contains the word “zero”. Perhaps because “zero” represents a unique number. Neither positive nor negative. Sort of neutral, therefore non-conflicting. At the same time, notice that the phrase “number zero” never did catch on that much. I wonder why.
But back to the main point now. I actually plan to walk into some specific stores and tell them which number they really are, and it’s definitely not the number one. If the resulting reaction proves interesting enough to write about, you’ll probably read here about it first. Oops, there I go, accidentally pronouncing another overused word: “first”. Hey, whatever. Stay tuned for further news, possibly in the near future.

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2001connections-article0001
A fresh look at #1, #2, #3 in everyday life.