Monthly Archives: January 2015

Language Tip 17 (2014-15)

The slash… Try not to use it to separate synonyms: “I went into the woods and saw a giant/huge toad.” A sentence like that leaves the reader wondering: 1) What is there a difference between “giant” and “huge”? 2) If … Continue reading

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Language tip 16 (2014-15)

Using expressions from other languages is risky and fine and replete with an “I don’t know what.” A well-placed French or Latin or Slovenian expression can contribute to the impression of a well-educated writer. However, there are other dangers. First, … Continue reading

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Language Tip 15 (2014-15)

Patterns with consider… The verb “consider” is normally transitive, but the usage depends on the meaning: 1) “He considers me stupid” means “He thinks that I am stupid.” 2) “Please consider me as a partner” means “Please think about making … Continue reading

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Language Tip 14 (2014-15)

The best of … construction: It’s perfectly ok to say “under the best circumstances” or “under the best conditions,” but this is not the best possible way of expressing this idea. In these particular cases, you can up the level … Continue reading

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Language Tip 13 (2014-15)

Media as a plural noun – Originally, the Latin singular used in English is “medium,” and the plural is “media.” Nowadays common usage prefers “media” as a singular noun, although it is still recommended to use it as a plural … Continue reading

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