10 grammar rules that really aren’t rules
Grammar is full of rules, and those who know them sometimes like to call out those who don’t. But some oft-stated rules are really just myths, as grammar blogger Mignon Fogarty writes at Mental Floss.
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5 exceptions to the grammar rules
Once you’ve learned all the basic rules of English grammar, you’ll find there are almost as many exceptions. Grammarly Director of Communications Allison VanNest explains some words that act in ways you might not expect.
We’ll give you 60 seconds to spot these 9 writing errors
At one point during his webinar on proofreading and editing, Fred asked attendees to quickly read nine sentences to see if they could pin down what was wrong with them. Surely you can spot all the errors, right? Let’s find out.
Do you use poor word choices?
Using incorrect terms or made-up words can make your speech and writing sound ridiculous and unprofessional. Grammarly’s Allison VanNest reviews several common errors to avoid in your communications.
How first and third work well together
Can you switch between first (I or we) and third person (he, she or they) in the same paragraph? Writing coach Lynn Gaertner-Johnston says you can, as long as you allow clarity to be your guide.
When is it OK to break grammar rules?
Getting your words right makes a good impression, but part of knowing the rules means knowing when it’s OK to break them. Linguist Steven Pinker, writing in The Guardian, offers eight grammar rules that you can bend once in a while.
Avoid these Weird Al ‘word crimes’
Weird Al Yankovic made grammar funny with his “Word Crimes” parody of Robin Thicke’s hit song “Blurred Lines” and its accompanying video this summer. Weird Al brought up some good grammar points that are important for everyone to remember, says News to Live By Managing Editor Danny Rubin.
Banish unnecessary prepositions
Many writers develop their own quirks and styles over time, and it’s possible to identify their writing just by the words and phrases they use. One common style quirk is using prepositions too much, especially the word “of,” says Grammar Girl blogger Mignon Fogarty. “Overusing it can make your writing sound passive and fussy.”
Quiz: Do you misuse these phrases?
Many misused words and phrases have become so common they’re now included in some dictionaries, but they once had correct usages. Here’s a list of phrases you might be saying wrong.
What exactly does ‘diversity’ refer to?
Bloggers and English language experts Patricia O’Conner and Stewart Kellerman checked with eight standard dictionaries and found no restriction on the usage of “diversity” beyond race or gender.