If you look at eastern Massachusetts in the “generic names for soft drinks” map, you’ll see a smaller percentage answer “soda” than elsewhere in New England. That’s because the real word for soft drinks in those parts is “tonic.” In fact, Boston has an array of unique usages, like “cleanser” for dry cleaner, “spa” for corner variety store, and “rotary” for a traffic circle.
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About the Author
Mark Krikorian is the executive director of the Center for Immigration Studies.
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