In this series, learn why zombie rules don’t work and what rule you can follow instead. This week, we’ll tackle the “likely” and “probably.”
Articles Categorized Grammar
Did you know that grammar is theoretical? And there’s more than one theory of grammar? No wonder you’re confused! These articles will help you improve your grammar with minimal fuss.
Grammar Bite: Comparing “Compare With” and “Compare To”
Editing is a tedious task, especially when dealing with similar phrases “compare with” and “compare to.” It’s time to clarify the confusion.
Do This, Then Do That: Coordinating “Then” Usage
Although the word “then” is often used as a coordinating conjunction, many editors still disagree on whether this is grammatically correct.
How to Spot Mrs. Malaprop
In some instances, misusing words can lead to unintentional, humorous results. Here’s how to easily identify these common mistakes.
“Social” vs. “Sociable”: Another Zombie Rule Bites the Dust
Before deciding whether to replace “social” with “sociable,” learn about this centuries-old zombie rule that stumps copyeditors to this day.
Getting Rid of Get?
Sometimes, copyediting rules can be subjective. The common yet controversial use of the word “get” is no exception.
“Of Which” as the Starch in Your Collar
Of which, or whose? Here’s what history has to say about the grammatical correctness of these commonly used phrases.
Grammar Bite: Who’s That?
If you’re writing for a client and are told to allow “that” to represent a person, breathe a sigh of relief: doing so doesn’t break any rules.
Grammar Bite: Adjective Basics
Adjectives can be a writer’s greatest friend, creating rich images and clear meaning. They can also be a writer’s worst enemy.
Grammar Bite: Active vs. Passive Voice
You want to keep your readers engaged with your writing to the end. One way to do this is to use more active voice and less passive voice in your writing.
