Are you using “allow” and “allow for” correctly? Discover the nuances of these phrases and avoid common pitfalls in your writing with practical examples.
Articles Categorized Usable Usage
How we use words matters. Get usage right with help from this collection of articles.
When to Stop Defining Abbreviations
Can a copyeditor choose when to stop spelling out an abbreviation? And how do you decide that it’s time?
“More Importantly”: Separating Grammar Myths from Reality
Grammar and language can be confusing, especially when the experts disagree. One of these disagreements involves using “more important” or “more importantly.”
To Have and to Receive: Two Usages of Have
As a main verb, “have” is one of the most common lexical verbs in English. Learn about how emphasis can shift the meaning of “have” and thus, your sentence.
Maybe, May Be Not: Don’t Sweat the Difference Too Much
The English language is fluid and constantly shifting with the times. This may result in the occasional grammatical error, but not all errors are worth a fuss.
Caroling the Lie/Lay Distinction
The distinction between the words “lie” and “lay” can be confusing for both writers and editors. Let’s break it down using well-known holiday carols.
On Account of My Pet Peeve
I’m not usually peevish about language use, but “on account of” is a pet peeve of mine. Here’s why it’s okay to use it anyway.
Rewriting the Zombies: “Try And”
Some language experts learned that you must replace the phrase “try and” with “try to.” So, let’s try and debunk that zombie rule. (Spoiler alert: we do!)
Rewriting the Zombies: Don’t Use “Each” for “Either”
While you may have learned that the words “each” and “either” have different meanings, this is actually a zombie rule that does not need to be followed.
Vagueness and Clarity in And/Or
Some language experts hate the use of and/or, even though the term appears in millions of texts. When used correctly, and/or illustrates choices to readers.
