John Simon said, “A person who misuses the language is as bereft of good taste as someone who picks his nose at a party.”
In that spirit, below are some sentences with common grammar and punctuation problems that trouble many people, least of all reporters and sub-editors.Can you spot the problems?
1) If I was rich, I’d do something about the homeless.
2) Theadministration hopes the faculty will set their own goals.
3) We feel badly that we missed your call.
4) You’ve been here longer than me.
5) Leave the parcel with whomever is in reception.
6) He lived in an old, red brick house.
7) I appreciate you doing this for me.
8) This gift will show someone you care about them.
9) We stayed outdoors like we did when we were young.
10) He is one of those who always wants the last word.
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Courtesy: The Book on Writing, the Ultimate Guide to Writing Well, by Paula LaRocque, writing coach of the Dallas Morning News
1) If I were rich, I’d do something for the homeless.
2) The administration hopes the faculty will set its own goals or The administration hopes the faculty members will set their own goals
3) We feel bad that we missed your call.
4) You’ve been here for longer than me.
5) Leave the parcel with whoever is in reception.
6) He lived in an old red brick house.
7) I appreciate your doing this for me.
This gift will show someone that you care for him/her.
9) We stayed outdoors like we were doing when we were young.
10) He is one of those who always want to have the last word.
You’ve been here for longer than I have.