I don't really know if there is a difference, but I am a part of a professional women's fraternity, and a social sorority. Because it's a women't fraternity maybe I don't see the difference (also because it's professional)in terms. That also might be because I am greek and I know the truth. However, I do see the point. The word "frat" might seem less distinguished and more "animal house." I agree with silverturtle. I find that I say the whole word Fraternity when talking, but when writing I write frat out of convenience. That's a part of my laziness too! It's just easier. I once heard someone say that it didn't bother them if brothers called the fraternity a frat, but when non-greeks called it a frat it really bothered them. I can see that point of view. I think that when greeks talk to other greeks and they say frat, its not disrespectful because they each know what it takes to be in a fraternity and they have respect for each other and their fraternity. But I could be wrong, and if you would rather me spell out the whole word when writing, just let me know--I'll try my hardest not to forget!
Mikki
------------------
"I would rather have thirty minutes of wonderful than a lifetime of nothing special."
--Julia Roberts
(Steel Magnolias)
[This message has been edited by mgdzkm433 (edited March 23, 2000).]
|