Is the Short Hand Called the Hand on a Clock? Unveiling the Terminology and Its Uses

The short hand on a clock is often referred to as the 'small hand' or 'little hand' instead of 'shorthand,' which has a different meaning. This article explores the correct terminology for clock hands and delves into the history and significance of shorthand writing.

The Terminology of Clock Hands

On a typical clock, one hand is shorter than the other. This shorter hand is known as the small hand or the little hand. The shorter hand indicates the hour, while the longer, sweeping hand, known as the big hand or minute hand, indicates the minutes.

The Evolution of Shorthand Writing

Shorthand has played a significant role in various professions, particularly before the advent of recording and dictation machines. Historically, shorthand was an essential skill for secretaries and police officers. Journalists also utilized shorthand to record conversations and audio promptly.

Types of Shorthand Systems

The first modern shorthand systems were geometric, meaning that symbols represent different sounds or sounds combined. Some examples include:

Pitman Shorthand Boyds Syllabic Shorthand Samuel Taylor's Universal Stenography Pévost-Delaunay Duployé system, adapted for writing Chinook Jargon through the Kamloops Wawa system Script Shorthand, based on the motions of ordinary handwriting

Using Context Clues for Reading and Writing

Context clues are a valuable tool used by students to understand unfamiliar words. By examining the surrounding words in a sentence or paragraph, readers can deduce the meaning of an unknown term. This skill is particularly useful in informal writing, such as chatting online, where messages are often short and informal.

Chatting is a fantastic way to practice informal English. In chat rooms, messages are typically short and informal, often not even complete sentences. The brevity and informality of chat messages closely mimic our spoken communication with friends, making them a natural environment for practicing shorthand and other informal writing techniques.

Conclusion

Whether you're deciphering the time on a clock or reading a hurried chat message, understanding the correct terminology is essential. The small hand on a clock, known as the little hand, and the various shorthand systems used in the past both serve important roles in communication. By mastering both, you enhance your ability to interpret and produce clear, effective writing in various contexts.