Words in the wrong context

[BigV]

Well, perhaps the analogy breaks down here. It works if you believe that the kid knows the right word, and also knows the right action (clothes/dishes). If we all know what the right usage is, and there's still misuse, then what's a parent to do to correct the error?

Why is the word being used incorrectly?

I see the dialog you use above as an attempt to use humor to instruct. I could be wrong. Is it just a passive aggressive game, where the adult is showing off? Then it's an *entirely* different problem, and language and vocabulary is just the weapon du jour.

I have a large vocabulary. I have been accused many times of talking over the heads of others for the punitive effect. Really? I'm just a windbag. ymmv.