*hugs back* English invective is complicated - so much of it has either regional, class status or historical significance embedded into it.
How about "pillock", or even "a complete pillock" for increased effect? It's an old word but still in use, and it keeps a somewhat affectionate edge to Merlin's tone, while very definitely implying that Arthur is being intentionally annoying and stupid... which he is *g* You could use "a complete pillock" in the first reference and then reduce it slightly to "pillock" when he's taking it back and downgrading Arthur to a "royal arse"!
Also, usually we say "On second thoughts," rather than "Thinking twice". :D
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branchandroot
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Date: 2010-08-08 03:41 pm (UTC)How about "pillock", or even "a complete pillock" for increased effect? It's an old word but still in use, and it keeps a somewhat affectionate edge to Merlin's tone, while very definitely implying that Arthur is being intentionally annoying and stupid... which he is *g* You could use "a complete pillock" in the first reference and then reduce it slightly to "pillock" when he's taking it back and downgrading Arthur to a "royal arse"!
Also, usually we say "On second thoughts," rather than "Thinking twice". :D