Common Mistakes of Grammar

  • By Prajakta Patole
  • December 5, 2023
  • Soft Skill
Common Mistakes of Grammar

Common Mistakes of Grammar

In the intricate world of language, grammar serves as the backbone, providing structure and coherence to our expressions. However, navigating the labyrinth of grammar rules can be a daunting task, and even the most seasoned writers occasionally find themselves entangled in common pitfalls. In this blog post, we’ll unravel some of the most prevalent grammar mistakes, exploring the reasons behind them and offering practical tips to steer clear of linguistic pitfalls. In this blo, we will explore about Common Mistakes of Grammar. Whether you’re a student, professional, or language enthusiast, this exploration aims to enhance your understanding of grammar and elevate your written and spoken communication. Enhance your communication skills with SevenMentor. Join Spoken English Training in Pune and unlock your full potential in English proficiency.

1. Subject-Verb Agreement (approx. 200 words)

One of the fundamental aspects of grammar often overlooked is subject-verb agreement. The error typically occurs when the subject and verb in a sentence do not match in number. For instance, the phrase “The team are playing well” should correctly read, “The team is playing well.” This mistake can be attributed to the plural form of “team” conflicting with the singular verb “is.”

Tip: Always ensure that the subject and verb in a sentence agree in number. If the subject is singular, use a singular verb; if it’s plural, use a plural verb.

2. Misusing Their, There, and They’re (approx. 200 words)

Confusion between “their,” “there,” and “they’re” is a common stumbling block in written communication. Each serves a distinct purpose: “their” denotes possession, “there” refers to a location, and “they’re” is a contraction of “they are.” For instance, “Their going to the store” should be corrected to “They’re going to the store.”

Tip: Take a moment to double-check your usage of these homophones. Ensure you’ve chosen the correct one based on its specific grammatical function.

 

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 3. Your vs. You’re (approx. 200 words)

The mix-up between “your” and “you’re” is another prevalent mistake that can significantly impact the clarity of a sentence. “Your doing great” should be revised to “You’re doing great.” The former denotes possession, while the latter is a contraction of “you are.”

Tip: Whenever in doubt, replace “you’re” with “you are” in your sentence. If it fits, you’ve made the correct choice. Do watch our article on necessity of Speaking English.

 4. Its vs. It’s (approx. 200 words)

The confusion between “its” and “it’s” revolves around possession versus contraction. “The cat licked its paws” is correct, while “The cat licked its paws” is incorrect. “Its” indicates possession, while “it’s” is the contraction of “it is” or “it has.”

Tip: Remember that apostrophes in “it’s” represent the omitted letters from “it is” or “it has.”

 5. Misplaced Apostrophes (approx. 200 words)

Misplaced apostrophes can distort the intended meaning of a sentence. For example, “The Smiths’ house is on fire” implies that the house belongs to multiple Smiths. The correct form, however, is “The Smiths house is on fire” if referring to the house owned by the Smith family.

Tip: Use apostrophes to indicate possession accurately. If the ownership is plural, place the apostrophe after the “s.”

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 6. Run-on Sentences and Comma Splices (approx. 250 words)

Run-on sentences and comma splices occur when two independent clauses are improperly joined. “I like to read I find it relaxing” is a run-on sentence that can be corrected by separating the clauses or adding a coordinating conjunction: “I like to read, and I find it relaxing.”

Tip: Be vigilant about sentence structure. If two ideas can stand alone as sentences, consider separating them with appropriate punctuation.

7. Double Negatives (approx. 200 words)

Using double negatives can create confusion in a sentence. “I don’t need no help” should be corrected to “I don’t need any help.” In standard English, a double negative often results in an affirmative meaning.

Tip: Avoid using double negatives unless you intend to emphasize a negation.

 8. Using ‘Me’ and ‘I’ Incorrectly (approx. 200 words)

Incorrect usage of “me” and “I” is a common grammatical mistake. For instance, “Me and him went to the store” should be corrected to “He and I went to the store.”

Tip: When in doubt, consider the sentence without the other person. “He went to the store” sounds correct, whereas “Me went to the store” does not.

9. Effect vs. Affect (approx. 200 words)

The confusion between “effect” and “affect” often stems from their similar meanings. “The new law will effect many people” should be revised to “The new law will affect many people.” In general, “effect” is a noun, and “affect” is a verb.

Tip: If you’re unsure, remember that “affect” is typically a verb, and “effect” is usually a noun.

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 10. Accept vs. Except (approx. 200 words)

The mix-up between “accept” and “except” is another common mistake. “I can’t except that offer” should be corrected to “I can’t accept that offer.” “Accept” means to receive or agree to something, while “except” denotes exclusion.

Tip: Remember that “accept” involves receiving or agreeing, whereas “except” is used to indicate exclusion.

11. Farther vs. Further (approx. 200 words)

Distinguishing between “farther” and “further” can be challenging. “Let’s discuss this farther” should be revised to “Let’s discuss this further.” Generally, “farther” refers to physical distance, while “further” pertains to figurative or abstract extension.

Tip: Use “farther” for physical distance and “further” for metaphorical or abstract ideas.

12. Fewer vs. Less (approx. 200 words)

The distinction between “fewer” and “less” is essential for precise communication. “I have less books than you” should be corrected to “I have fewer books than you.” “Less” is used for uncountable items, while “fewer” is appropriate for countable items.

Tip: If you can count the items, use “fewer”; if not, use “less.”

13. Who vs. Whom (approx. 200 words)

Determining when to use “who” and “whom” can be challenging. “Whom is responsible for this?” should be revised to “Who is responsible for this?” Generally, use “who” as the subject and “whom” as the object.

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Author:-

Prajakta Patole

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