Reader question:

Please explain “last word” in this sentence: “It’s funny how so many parents absolutely insist on having the last word.” What last word?

My comments:We’re talking about Chinese parents, aren’t we?

Well, at any rate let’s talk about Chinese parents, whom we all know a great deal about. In the event of an interfamily debate or argument (or quarrel, if you will), “the last word” does usually come from our parents, or grandparents, for that matter. And “the last word” must be, literally speaking, an order – or just something that reminds you who the head of the household is.

The point being, of course, you as a child should obey your parents. Therefore, you should quit arguing, stop talking back and start learning how to do as you’re told (even if you don’t disagree).

Only then can you see the end of the matter – whatever it is that’s being argued (or quarreled) about – and the family will have peace for a few moments.

The last word, you see, originally refers to the last point made in an argument which is so well said and convincing that it effectively puts the end to a debate. In other words, the last word is what clinches the debate.

He who has the last word, therefore, wins because the opponent, realizing the cause is lost, gives up.

Hence, the last word is also synonymous to the best, the final and the most authoritative type of thing that stands out from the rest. If a book has the last word on climate change, for example, the book is considered the best on the subject.

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