Re: USAGE: YAEUT: "Molten" vs. "Melted"
| From: | Aidan Grey <taalenmaple@...> |
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| Date: | Monday, October 13, 2008, 18:00 |
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I could be wrong, by my first thought is that "molten" is only used if that is a
normal / common state for the substance. Molten lava, molten iron, molten
plastic (i.e. before it is molded or formed). Obviously, manufacturing is the
most common context in which "molten" is used. It also seems to be only used
with mass nouns.
"Melted" is used when it's not the usual state - melted crayons, melted plastic
(post-molding), melted cheese.
Molten crayon - crayon before it's formed
Melted crayon - individual crayon that has melted post-molding.
Molten sugar - mass of sugar prior to molding / finalizing
Melted sugar - sugar crystals that have melted, whether in tea or prior to caramelization
Aidan
----- Original Message ----
From: Eldin Raigmore <eldin_raigmore@...>
To: CONLANG@listserv.brown.edu
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2008 11:51:28 AM
Subject: USAGE: YAEUT: "Molten" vs. "Melted"
In English the verb "melt" has two passive perfect participles; to wit, "molten"
and "melted".
When is it more appropriate to use "molten" than "melted", and when is it more
appropriate to use "melted" than "molten"?
Are there any circumstances in which only one is appropriate? If so, what
circumstances, and which one is appropriate?
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