Grammar

The term squinting modifiers refers to a word or phrase that can appear to modify words or phrases on either side of it in a sentence. Because of this, readers may find it confusing to understand which words the modifier is intended to modify. The name is quite apt because squint can mean to look…

Is it okay to start a sentence with an adverb? Naturally, you might be a bit wary with so much negativity around using adverbs in good writing. However, it shouldn’t deter you because using an adverb to start a sentence is perfectly normal. It’s often an ideal way to emphasize a point, introduce a contrast,…

Most new writers don’t struggle with writing, but they can feel overwhelmed by the nearly infinite lists of writing terms, grammar concepts, and literary devices. If you’re finding your feet, you’ve probably already come across dozens, like show, don’t tell, passive voice, syntax, and point of view. Here’s a tip for new writers: it’s easy…

Every writer can make common grammar errors, but some are so normal now that we’ve started to think they’re okay. It could be ending a sentence with a preposition or using “less” when “fewer” would usually be correct. These little slip-ups have a name. Solecism means a mistake in grammar, syntax, or word choice that…

Conditional cause-and-effect sentences can be quite rigid, and that’s where conditional sentence variations can come in handy. While they are extremely useful, conditionals can become a little tedious if they always begin with if and when. That’s why having variations at hand can help with style, flow, rhythm, and clarity, and reduce unnecessary repetition. The…

You often read writing advice saying adverbs are bad, but learning how to use adverbs effectively is a key skill for any writer. That’s not to say that teachers, editors, or even famous authors are wrong to warn about using adverbs in writing. But adverbs are a natural part of language and writing, along with…

I’ve been teaching English for a long time, but the history of English rules never ceases to amaze me. To say it’s a messy language is putting it mildly. However, that’s also the beauty of English. It’s a language that’s alive, evolving, and adapting; unbridled from convention and regulation. While its history goes back centuries,…

When AI gets grammar wrong, it’s not always obvious at first glance. But if you’re too quick to hit the accept change button from your grammar checker, you could be undoing great writing. You might think a suggested change looks fine, because it’s usually at a word or clause level. But when you look at…

You’re not alone if comma usage rules drive you up the wall. It seems like there are more rules and disagreements for this tiny little punctuation mark than for any other part of grammar and writing. I’m sure you know the basic comma rules. But worrying about them when you write is an unnecessary distraction.…

I never trust one writing checker before I publish my writing online. I’ve learned the hard way that while it is quick and easy, none of them are perfect. That’s why I am in the habit of using two or three before I trust my eyes for a thorough proofread. It might seem pedantic, but…