Monthly Archives: November 2013

Language/Writing Tip 8

Posted on 15/11/2013 by ljsdas@guest.arnes.si

This is less of a tip than food for thought. Read this sentence aloud (slightly changed from a real, published example): “And universities have similarly raised intellectual property concerns over ownership of the online courses their professors are now asked … Continue reading →

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Language/Writing Tip 7

Posted on 14/11/2013 by ljsdas@guest.arnes.si

This will not be a stellar explanation, but here goes… Often there is a comma missing before “with” – that is, in qualifying clauses or whatever they’re called. Example: “He went to sea with an oar as his sole companion.” … Continue reading →

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Language/Writing Tip 6

Posted on 13/11/2013 by ljsdas@guest.arnes.si

Language/Writing Tip 6 This funny-sounding combination pops up occasionally: “As a future author, young Hemingway was an avid reader.” or “In her efforts to improve her writing, elderly Munro turned to the spellcheck.” “young Hemingway” and “elderly Munro” sound dismissive. … Continue reading →

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Language/Writing Tip 5

Posted on 04/11/2013 by ljsdas@guest.arnes.si

I have lately had the un-pleasure of proofreading a number of academic articles. I have come to hate the phrase “to shed some light on…” A few examples: a) “This paper aims to shed some light on immigration.” b) “This … Continue reading →

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Language/Writing Tip 4

Posted on 04/11/2013 by ljsdas@guest.arnes.si

“Rather” is rather annoying because it looks like it should be a verb: “I would rather eat snake soup,” she said after he asked her out. “Rather” is an adverb. It is not a verbal synonym for “to prefer,” which … Continue reading →

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