He might well have divided the subject into two parts: Yankeeisms and Southernisms. View Full Article in Timesmachine » Advertisement ...

Back in 1886, The New York Times ran a piece titled “Odd Southernisms” that described “y’all” as “one of the most ridiculous of all the Southernisms.” That perception has persisted.

“Y’all” might serve an important function, but it has acquired negative connotations. Back in 1886, The New York Times ran a piece titled “Odd Southernisms” that described “y’all” as “one of the most ...