As an English teacher and a writer, I feel that word precision is important. It is important to use the correct word in order to communicate effectively. Do I get it right all the time? No, we all make mistakes. However, I always strive to be precise.
This is something I try to instill in my own child and the children I teach. But there is one mistake, in particular, that drives me crazy. I ensure that all my students know the correct terms when it comes to this issue. It is so important that I have added it to my quizzes. I say it so often to my students that they tease me about it. What is the grammatical hang-up? The difference between a lectern and a podium.
According to the Merriam Webster Collegiate Dictionary, a lectern is a tall stand with a sloping top to hold a book or notes, from which someone, typically a preacher or lecturer, can read while standing up. A podium is a small platform on which a person may stand to be seen by an audience, as when making a speech or conducting an orchestra.
So, a lectern is a stand you lecture from. A podium is a platform you stand on. When you look at the root words, it makes sense. One of the meanings of the root word “lect” is read. You read from a lectern. The root word “pod” means foot. You place your feet on a podium.
I know most people see a lectern and say, “podium,” and I know what they are talking about, but it still bothers me that they don’t use the correct term. There are times when I am tempted to just give in and use the commonly misused word because people look at me funny or ask, “what?” when I say, “the lectern.” However, if I don’t stand up for proper vernacular, then who will?
