Cosmic Allison

This probably indicates little more than how compulsive I am about precise use of words (hey, I'm an INTP...and 'cause the Meyers-Briggs is destiny, I can't help myself, right?)

...but one thing I like about this (very funny song: even if it's also kinda sad) is how he wrote:

I winced at her words You know I always hated that word, "cosmic"

Why? Because it seems as if dozens of times a month, I encounter instances in which people use the word "cringe," when the word befitting their intended usage is "wince."

To cringe: it means to crouch or bend, in a servile manner.

If you wince: literally, it implies defensive body-language, as if you're expecting to be struck. More commonly, it describes a facial expression--or, merely a thought--anticipating (or reacting to) something unpleasant.

I can understand why people associate the two words. Either can be used to describe someone fearing a hostile reaction.

But it's extremely insulting to describe someone as cringing; it (at least) implies cowardice, often with a connotation of deception.

To wince: that reflects more on the person whose words/behavior cause the wincing. But it's neutral, with respect to the person who winces.

I've more than exhausted my quota for professorial demeanor, after writing this.