TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
Usage of the word sets my teeth on edge, too. But believe it or not, I
encountered a reputable dictionary that listed "irregardless" as a word
(common usage of regardless). I was horrified. We need one of those language
institutes they have in European countries that guard the language.
Otherwise, people's mistakes/ignorance become accepted usage. Can you
believe it??
<snip>
It may sound nit-picky, but "irregardless" is not a word. The correct word
is
regardless. I have heard the word irregardless used many times and it always
sets my teeth on edge. The word regardless means "without regard to...,"
therefore, logic dictates that irregardless is a double negative.
