[quote=@Legend] The Oxford Dictionaries have an article on the usage, saying that it dates back to the 16th century. EDIT: I'm considering all of the English language, but that argument is invalid. Simply because an American society awarded it for being accurate doesn't mean that it applies to American linguistics. America can also award a "Best British History Book" prize, but that doesn't translate to being accepted American history. [/quote] Chaucer uses it much earlier than that, quoted by Jespersen in Merriam-Webster's Concise Dictionary of English Usage. was hoping you wouldn't notice that =P I realised that just as I posted the edit, but I just shrugged and went on with my school. But if it helps, the Chicago Manual of Style also endorses the usage.