The spelling of the phrase "makes ragged" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first word "makes" is spelled /meɪks/ and is pronounced with a long A sound, followed by a K and S sound. The second word "ragged" is spelled /ræɡd/ and pronounced with a short A sound, followed by a hard G and a D sound. When combined, the phrase refers to something or someone causing rough or uneven edges, typically in clothing or fabric.
The phrase "makes ragged" refers to the action or process of creating or causing something to become torn, tattered, or worn out, typically describing the condition of an object, material, or appearance. It suggests a state of disarray, unevenness, or disintegration.
When something "makes ragged," it implies subjecting an item or a person to wear and tear that results in a frayed, uneven, or unkempt state. This could involve a physical or metaphorical manipulation, strain, or force that causes the deterioration of the item, leading to a lack of smoothness or uniformity.
In a literal sense, "makes ragged" could be applied to fabric or clothing that has been repeatedly used, causing it to tear or fray along the edges, resulting in an untidy or worn-out appearance. Additionally, it can refer to any material or object that undergoes a degradation process, such as the edges of a book becoming tattered or uneven after extensive use.
Metaphorically, "makes ragged" can describe the impact of constant stress, hardship, or challenges on a person or their emotions. It suggests that these difficulties have worn down their vitality, leaving them exhausted or emotionally worn-out, just like a ragged physical object. Therefore, the phrase can encompass the wear and tear experienced by both tangible objects and intangible aspects of human life, emphasizing a state of disarray, dilapidation, or fatigue.
The phrase "makes ragged" consists of two main components: "makes" and "ragged".
1. Makes: This is the third-person singular form of the verb "make". The word "make" originated from the Old English verb "macian", which meant "to construct" or "to form". Over time, its meaning expanded to include various concepts such as creation, production, and causing something to happen.
2. Ragged: The word "ragged" is an adjective describing something that is torn, worn-out, or in tattered condition. Its etymology can be traced back to the Middle English word "ragged", which derived from the Old Norse word "rögg", meaning "shaggy" or "hairy". The term eventually evolved to encompass the concept of torn or frayed clothes.