Either it is. Or it isn't.

Since when did the definition of the word 'unlimited' change?

Unlimited = limitless, infinite, boundless, indefinite, unrestricted.... need I continue?

Why then, do the Validation Certificates for my shiny new Ford Fiesta say "Unlimited mileage is to a maximum of 100,000 miles"?

Of course the missing word in this grammatically dubious sentence is... yes, you guessed it, 'limited': Unlimited mileage is... ahem... limited to a maximum of 100,000 miles.

I'm all for language evolving – new words being brought to life, outmoded grammar being laid to rest, but why the double-think? Either it's unlimited, or it's limited – what could be clearer?

Somewhere in the bowels of Ford Headquarters, there are people who compose this stuff. Who educated them?

Grump.

6th May 2011