Clichés
A cliché or is an expression, phrase, or sentence that has lost its originality and impact because of overuse. Share This:
Who, That, Which
It can sometimes be confusing when to use who, that, or which. Following are some helpful guidelines. Share This:
Toward Less Boring Linking-Words
So, you’ve done a lot of research, and now it’s time to start writing, or you’ve written your piece and it’s time to read it through for a first self-edit. When you’ve written down your thoughts, they may appear on paper as you speak in everyday conversation. Share This:
On the word ‘like’
The word “like” is one of the most common English words. It has many usages, some standard, some colloquial, and some completely idiomatic. Following is an analysis, with recommendations for good usage. Share This:
Negative Prefixes
Most of us grow up learning the negative prefixes by hearing them spoken in context. But, what determines which prefix to use in order to form that word’s opposite? Why is it unlawful, but it’s illegal? Why is it infirm, but it’s impaired? And how do you know what prefix to use when you need
Empty Adverbs
Many adverbs are unnecessary. They tend to clutter your sentences and can annoy your readers. So how to spot them and deal with them? Share This:
Commonly Misused Words—Part 2
Your spell-checker may not identify these words as wrong, because they’re not misspelled. However, because these terms look alike and sound alike, they’re often confused with each other. How many of these do you get mixed up? Share This:
Commonly Misused Words—Part 1
Your spell-checker may not identify these words as wrong, because they’re not misspelled. However, because these terms look alike and sound alike, they’re often confused with each other and get misused. How many of these do you get mixed up? Share This:
On Usage
What is “good” usage? For that matter, what is “good” English? What newly-coined words are okay to use, and who’s to judge? Following are some thoughts on your choice of what words to use in your writing. Share This:
Words
Words have power. Unfortunately, there are writers who don’t understand or who misuse that power. Here are some ideas for how to develop that power. Share This: