I suspect that everyone can complete the phrase, which, unfortunately, usually comes after a needlessly long introduction of the person people have come to hear. Its become something of a clich, of course, and anyone tempted to use it is hereby advised that, according to the OED, "without further, or more, ado" was already in use in 1380.

Rev. Joseph A. Komonchak, professor emeritus of the School of Theology and Religious Studies at the Catholic University of America, is a retired priest of the Archdiocese of New York.

Also by this author
© 2024 Commonweal Magazine. All rights reserved. Design by Point Five. Site by Deck Fifty.