Hair-raising mistake

I was completely astounded when I read your Japan gives US$100,000 to research hair lips article on Feb. 6.

I have been learning English for many decades, and never before did I hear or read in any English writings the word "hair lip" if you mean by "a split in the upper lip like that of a hare occurring as a congenital deformity."

I thought it was probably an American English word, but I could not find the word "hair lip" in the dictionary. Finally, I checked with the Oxford Dictionary for Writers and Editors, then I saw the common error. The dictionary says it is harelip (one word), and hair lip is a common mistake due to the similar sound.

Many times I found strange phrases or even outdated words used in The Jakarta Post, which is annoying to readers.

MONA LOHANDA

Jakarta