Here's a breakdown of why:
* Diacritical marks: These are small marks added to letters to modify their pronunciation or meaning. They come in various forms, including dots, lines, hooks, and more.
* Squiggle: This is a vague term that could describe any wavy, irregular line.
Possible meanings of "diacritical squiggle":
* Tilde (~): This diacritical mark is used in Spanish, Portuguese, and other languages, and it can resemble a squiggle.
* Circumflex (^): Another diacritical mark used in various languages, particularly French. It can also be perceived as a squiggle.
* Other diacritics: Some people might use "squiggle" to refer to any diacritical mark that looks less structured or more "free-form" than dots or lines.
It's best to be specific about the diacritical mark you're referring to. For example, instead of saying "diacritical squiggle," you could say "tilde" or "circumflex." This will help avoid ambiguity and ensure clear communication.