101 Language Choices That Will Get You Clobbered By The Grammar Snobs Even If

Language is a powerful tool for communication, but it can also be a dangerous weapon in the hands of grammar snobs. These self-proclaimed language experts will not hesitate to correct your grammar or point out your linguistic slip-ups. It seems like they are always ready to pounce on any mistake with their red pens at the ready. So, if you want to avoid being clobbered by these grammar snobs, it's essential to pay attention to your language choices. Here are 101 language choices that will definitely get you in trouble.

1. Using "literally" incorrectly

The word "literally" should only be used to indicate something that actually happened. Using it metaphorically or to emphasize a point can trigger grammar snobs and lead to a verbal lashing.

Mortal Syntax: 101 Language Choices That Will Get You Clobbered by the Grammar Snobs--Even If Y ou're Right

by June Casagrande (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	292 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	242 pages

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2. Starting a sentence with "Me and..."

Grammar snobs cringe when they hear someone start a sentence with "Me and..." The correct way is to say "I and...". Using "Me and..." is considered poor grammar and is guaranteed to make you an easy target for grammar snobs.

3. Mixing up "there," "their," and "they're"

Confusing these homophones will likely lead to a grammar snob's wrath. "There" refers to a place, "their" shows possession, and "they're" is a contraction of "they are." Mixing them up can result in eye rolls and disapproving sighs.

4. Overusing exclamation marks!!!

Exclamation marks should be used sparingly to express genuine excitement, surprise, or urgency. Using too many exclamation marks can make your writing appear over-the-top and amateurish in the eyes of grammar snobs.

5. Ignoring the difference between "its" and "it's"

Grammar snobs will notice when you mix up "its" and "it's." "Its" shows possession, while "it's" is a contraction of "it is." Using them interchangeably will surely attract the attention of grammar snobs and invite their critiques.

6. Misusing apostrophes in plurals

Apostrophes are used to indicate possession or contractions, but they should never be used in plurals. For example, saying "banana's" instead of "bananas" will make grammar snobs cringe at your lack of punctuation knowledge.

7. Using "irregardless" instead of "regardless"

The word "irregardless" is often mistakenly used in place of "regardless." While it has gained some level of acceptance in informal language, grammar snobs will quickly point it out as non-standard and discourage its usage.

8. Confusing "your" and "you're"

Mixing up "your" and "you're" is a common mistake that grammar snobs love to correct. "Your" shows possession, while "you're" is a contraction of "you are." Be careful not to mix them up or risk being an easy target for grammar snobs.

9. Using double negatives

Using double negatives, such as "I don't know nothing," is a grammatical error that grammar snobs will quickly catch. Instead, use a correct affirmative sentence to avoid their ridicule.

10. Overusing clichés and buzzwords

Clichés and buzzwords are often used to make writing sound more exciting or engaging. However, overusing them can make your writing appear unoriginal and lazy to grammar snobs. Avoid clichés and choose your words wisely to stay under their radar.

These are just ten out of many language choices that can get you clobbered by grammar snobs. It's important to stay vigilant and ensure your grammar is up to par to avoid unnecessary criticism. Grammar snobs might annoy you at times, but their attention to detail can also serve as a valuable lesson to improve your language skills. So, embrace the challenge and strive to become a better communicator with every word you choose!

Mortal Syntax: 101 Language Choices That Will Get You Clobbered by the Grammar Snobs--Even If Y ou're Right

by June Casagrande (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	292 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	242 pages

FREE

The only fun, friendly, and surefire defense against the grammar snobs

Having already made a name for herself with Grammar Snobs Are Great Big Meanies, now in its fifth printing, June Casagrande returns with Mortal Syntax, taking on the 101 most frequently attacked usage choices. Dedicating one short chapter to each, Casagrande brings her subject to life, teaching English usage through lively and amusing personal anecdotes. Mortal Syntax includes such chapters as:
? "I wish I was taller"
? "I am continuously watching Simpsons reruns"
? "Was it Horton that heard the Who?"

Casagrande's clear and concise lessons-with entertaining titles and themes-make a potentially prickly subject go down like a spoonful of sugar.