It occurs when there is damage to regions of the brain that control language. You cannot be sure until you are checked out by a doctor, but what you are describing can occur in a brain disorder called aphasia or dysphasia. Language issues like the ones you describe, Matthew, can be relatively innocuous or they may be subtle, early clues about more serious problems occurring in the brain, such as a tumor or infection. Does this sound like anything to look into?' I did go to speech lessons in elementary school. My wife (a special ed teacher) believes it's a learning disability and it's just becoming more pronounced as I age. My family notes when this happens and it's worrying me. Reminding them to eat their 'hot dog''when they're clearly holding a hamburger. Calling the boys down for 'breakfast' instead of dinner. Talking about pouring a 'box' instead of bowl of cereal. Over the past year or so, I've caught myself saying a similar word to the one I'm thinking.
Have 11-year-old sons, both diagnosed with Asperger's but mainstream and doing fine.
As a feature of, our team of expert doctors will answer readers' questions.