Which text uses the word factoid in its traditional sense?
The lecturer became flustered when a factoid that she had presented was promptly refuted by an expert in the field. The lecturer's presentation on economics included some interesting factoids from recent research studies in the field.
Words change in meaning when speakers begin using them in new ways. For example, the word peruse once only meant to examine in detail, but it's now also commonly used to mean to look through in a casual manner.
When a word changes in meaning, its correct usage is often debated. Although a newer sense of the word may be more commonly used, many people consider a word's traditional definition to be the correct usage. Being able to distinguish the different uses of a word can help you use it appropriately for different audiences.
Britney perused her notes, carefully preparing for her exam.
The traditional usage above is considered more standard.
David perused the magazine, absentmindedly flipping through the pages.
The nontraditional usage above is now commonly used, but traditional style guides generally advise against it.
The second text uses factoid in its traditional sense: something made up presented as a true fact.
The lecturer became flustered when a factoid that she had presented was promptly refuted by an expert in the field.
The first text uses factoid in its nontraditional sense: a trivial but true fact.
The lecturer's presentation on economics included some interesting factoids from recent research studies in the field.
Most style guides recommend to use the traditional sense of the word factoid because it is considered more standard.