The spelling of the word "more neuter" may seem tricky at first glance, but it actually follows the predictable pattern of English pronunciation. The word is spelled with the same sounds as the word "neuter," which is typically pronounced /ˈnuːtər/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The additional "more" before "neuter" simply means "even more neutral." So, when pronounced together, the word sounds like /mɔːr ˈnuːtər/. While it may look confusing on paper, the correct pronunciation is easy to master with practice.
"More neuter" is a comparative phrase that describes something or someone as being even more neutral, impartial, or lacking distinct qualities or characteristics. The term "neuter" itself primarily refers to being neutral or devoid of gender, typically relating to living beings or grammatical constructs. However, in a broader sense, "more neuter" can also be applied to objects, actions, or situations that lack clear or defined attributes, making them appear unbiased, impartial, or of a lesser degree of specificity.
The phrase "more neuter" indicates an increase in the neutrality or lack of distinctive features seen in the subject being described. It suggests an enhanced state of being without gender or, more generally, without clear or pronounced qualities that would differentiate it from others. It emphasizes the absence of defined characteristics, giving the impression of an amplified lack of bias or a more extreme level of impartiality.
In summary, "more neuter" refers to an intensified state of neutrality, indicating a heightened absence of gender or marked qualities that set something apart. This phrase underscores a greater level of impartiality or the lack of distinct attributes in relation to living beings, grammatical constructs, objects, actions, or situations, emphasizing a more neutral or unbiased nature.
The term "more neuter" seems to be a combination of two separate words: "more" and "neuter". Let's explore the etymology of each word individually:
1. More: The word "more" comes from the Old English word "māra", which means "greater" or "larger". It shares a common root with similar words in other Germanic languages, such as German "mehr" and Dutch "meer".
2. Neuter: The word "neuter" comes from the Latin word "neutrum", which means "neither of two". In Latin grammar, nouns were categorized into three genders: masculine, feminine, and neuter. The term "neuter" was used to describe words that were neither masculine nor feminine.