Hyphens with Common Prefixes, Part 2
The current trend is to do away with unnecessary hyphens with common prefixes.
Examples:
noncompliance
copayment
semiconscious
unending
However, there are exceptions.
Posted on Tuesday, February 1st, 2011 at 10:33 am
The Number vs A Number
The expression the number is followed by a singular verb while the expression a number is followed by a plural verb.
Examples:
The number of people we need to hire is thirteen.
A number of people have written in about this subject.
Posted on Thursday, December 9th, 2010 at 9:01 am
Spelling: –ce vs. –se
It is easy to get confused between nouns and verbs that are spelled almost identically. However, here is a simple rule that will help you with two sound-alike pairs of words.
Rule: Generally, the verb form will be spelled with the “s” and the noun with the “c.”
Examples:
advise vs. advice
devise vs. device
Example: She gave us good advice.
Noun meaning recommendation.
Example: Please advise us of our options.
Verb meaning the act of giving a recommendation.
To learn more about confusing words and homonyms, click here.
Read more…
Posted on Tuesday, October 19th, 2010 at 3:49 pm
When to Capitalize People’s Titles
When should you capitalize someone’s title? I get this question quite often so here are some guidelines:
Rule: Capitalize a person’s title when it follows the name on the address or signature line.
Examples:
Sincerely, Margaret Haines, Chairperson
Margaret Haines, Chairperson
1234 South Wallace St.
Portland, OR 97232
Posted on Thursday, October 14th, 2010 at 10:35 am
Paraprosdokian Sentences
This is from Dan, who offers us a new word and an idea worth understanding and enjoying. He suggests looking at Wikipedia’s link for more paraprosdokians: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paraprosdokian
A paraprosdokian is a figure of speech in which the latter part of a sentence or phrase is surprising or unexpected in a way that causes the reader or listener to reframe or reinterpret the first part. It is frequently used for humorous or dramatic effect. For this reason, it is extremely popular among comedians and satirists. I hope you enjoy these!
Posted on Tuesday, August 31st, 2010 at 11:28 am
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