20 Common Grammar Mistakes That (Almost) Everyone Makes

20 Common Grammar Mistakes That (Almost) Everyone Makes Column by Jon Gingerich January 31, 2012 I’ve edited a monthly magazine for more than six years, and it’s a job that’s come with more frustration than reward. If there’s one thing I am grateful for — and it sure isn’t the pay — it’s that my […]

15 Most Butchered Phrases in the English Language

From http://www.onlinedegree.net/15-most-butchered-phrases-in-the-english-language/ Compared to other languages, English isn’t particularly complex. But do other languages have nearly as many similar sounding words and phrases? We’ve all made the mistake of consistently butchering a phrase or two, not realizing it until someone had the nerve to correct us. Unless you couldn’t care less about sounding silly, it’s […]

Complete and Finished – An English Lesson for All

One of my Russian clients sent me this – enjoy! *Complete and finished – An English Lesson for All* No English dictionary has been able to explain the difference between the two words ‘complete’ and ‘finished’ in a way that’s so easy to understand: Some people say there is no difference between COMPLETE & FINISHED, […]

I Believe in the Power of You and I…or Me?

Can’t fool you and me: Grammarian says lyrics to ‘I Believe’ anthem flawed By Bruce Cheadle, The Canadian Press Feb 23, 9:00 am EST WHISTLER, B.C. – It has become as emblematic and familiar to TV viewers of the 2010 Winter Games as Alexandre Bilodeau, underperforming Canadian medal hopefuls and venue weather woes. But that […]

Do You Have “A News” or “Some News”?

I hear this mistake all the time, so I thought I should put it down here. In English we say “news” not “a news”. It is uncountable. Eg. Vanesa:  “I have some (good/bad/strange) news to tell you/share with you/for you!” Rob:  “Really?  What’s the (good/bad/strange) news?” Vanesa:  “I’m pregnant!!!” Rob:  (Faints…) So please do not […]

English Acronyms and Short Forms for the Office

Here are a few acronyms that you most likely will come across as you work in a professional setting, like an office.  These will come in handy (be useful) as you read and write office memos, emails, texts and letters. Re:  This means “Regarding”, as in “regarding (or in regards to) your question/memo/email etc.” Appt:  […]

The Complexity and Power of Words

The interesting thing about words is that they have different meanings to different people, even when using the same language, due to the way we process, filter and finally understand information. What does a word mean to you? Does it mean the exact same thing to every member of your family, community, country or language […]