Hi there,
Do you recognise the book in the photo above? Well, I included it as I think that many of us have forgotten what a dictionary looks like. In the good old days, we would reach for a dictionary and a thesaurus to look up words which were unfamiliar to us.
Now, with the internet and all sorts of gadgets available, the answers are at our fingertips. So why do we still make the same mistakes, time and time again and what can be done?
Well, I think we need to take a proper look at my favourite subject – English Grammar.
Let me start with some definitions. According to English Grammar for Dummies:
‘…grammar is the study of language specifically, how words are put together to create meaning.’
The Cambridge Dictionary defines grammar in British English as:
‘(the study or use of) the rules about how words change their form and combine with other words to make sentences.’
See, Cambridge Dictionary.
The Oxford Dictionary says:
‘Grammar is the way in which words are put together to form proper sentences.’
The site also gives links to more detailed information, should you require it. I will not be talking about split infinitives. I promise no jargon. This is not an A Level English lesson.
I have included these definitions, as I think that the more we understand the dynamics of grammar, the more we are able to use it effectively.
Over the next few weeks, I will be putting grammar under the microscope; looking at the correct and incorrect usage and finding examples from everyday life.
I hope that you can join me for the rest of the Grammar Series.
Take Care,
Tricia
pmnoblewrites 