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accusations levied against

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Yilaner

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Aug 19, 2012, 11:46:22 PM8/19/12
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"...didn't deny the accusations levied
against her."
-----------------------------------------------

Can you "levy" an accusation? I think
it should be "level."

Guy Barry

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Aug 20, 2012, 2:56:56 AM8/20/12
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"Yilaner" wrote in message
news:22307c5d-e60c-4f90...@q7g2000pbj.googlegroups.com...

> "...didn't deny the accusations levied
> against her."

> Can you "levy" an accusation? I think
> it should be "level."

I agree.

--
Guy Barry

Marius Hancu

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Aug 20, 2012, 12:25:26 PM8/20/12
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You can.
Have a look at the many examples with:
"accusations levied against"
at Google Books.

One of the meanings in the Short OED is:
"commence (hostilities)," that might be considered in such usage.

Also, the old meaning of:
"set up," "erect,"
old fashioned now, it seems.

The OED experts should tell us more.

Marius Hancu

Mike L

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Aug 20, 2012, 5:44:13 PM8/20/12
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Though more an habitu� than an expert, I find the nearest it gets is:
<b. To draw up (an objection, protest) in due form.
1660 E. Stillingfleet Irenicum (1662) i. i. 7 This objection will
be soon leavied, that it is [etc.].
1868 E. Seyd Bullion 82 He must send the Bill to a Notary..who
then levies Protest in due form.>

I don't feel that justifies an extension to accusations; but the
dictionary also mentions, as errors, two 17thC uses in place of
"level", in the sense of "aim[a weapon]".

I'd use "level" for an accusation.

--
Mike.
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