1030. This week, we look at why "hang" has two past-tense forms: "hanged" and "hung." (And why I keep messing them up!) Then we expand on why "pair" can be singular or plural. And finally we look at why we hear some words only in set phrases such as "bated breath," "throes of agony," and "to and fro."

The "archaic language" segment was written by Karen Lunde, a former Quick and Dirty Tips editor who has crafted hundreds of articles on the art of writing well. She was an online education pioneer, founding one of the first online writing workshops. These days, she provides writing tips and writing coach services at HelpMeWriteBetter.com.

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'Hanged' versus 'Hung.' Is 'pair' singular or plural? Fossilized phrases. 16:33 Share

Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing

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'Hanged' versus 'Hung.' Is 'pair' singular or plural? Fossilized phrases.