Bum Leg Report

This one was brought to my attention this evening.

The phrase "bum leg" i believe to be referring to when you have a leg injury or, are lame in the leg. This is odd, using different part of the body to describe the misfortune of another part.

My friends and i quickly realised that it is only the leg that has the privilege of being described as bum when it is not at it's best. You do not describe any other injured part of the body as being bum. Unless it is the bum itself. But if it is the bum that is injured you do not double it up for a "bum bum". Normally "bum bum" is only used when speaking with a child and describing the behind. Example: "Did you fall on your bum bum?"

The word bum can also be used in a negative way when speaking of perhaps one's reputation, referring to their "rap". A "bum rap". Which again i am left confused as to why it is "rap" and not "rep". "Rep" being what i would use as a short form of reputation.

Well, there you have it. I'm once again slightly confused with the English language. But i guess that's OK, keeps it interesting, doesn't it?

Thanks for reading, If you have any comments or insights please share them.

Lenny.