Embarrassing Grammar Mistakes

When someone uses grammar incorrectly, we sometimes make assumptions about his or her intelligence or education. The incorrect use of words, spelling, and punctuation can leave a lasting impression on others. Even the most educated people make common writing and speaking mistakes.

Here is a short list of ubiquitous grammar mistakes:

(1) Confusing "your" and "you're."

"Your" is possessive. "Your shirt is blue"

“You're" is a contraction of "you are." "You're going on a trip."

(2) Misusing "its" and "it's."

"Its" is a possessive pronoun. "The dog wagged its tail."

"It's" is a contraction of "it is." "It's raining outside."

(3) Using "there" instead of "their" or "they're."

"There" refers to a place. "There is a park nearby."

"Their" is possessive. "Their car is red."

"They're" is a contraction of "they are." "They're going to the concert."

(4) Confusing "affect" and "effect."

"Affect" is a verb that means to influence. "The rain will affect the crops."

"Effect" is a noun that means the result of an action. "The effect of the medicine was immediate."

(5) Misusing apostrophes.

To show possession. “John's book."

A contraction. "Can't" is a contraction of "cannot."

(6) Using "then" instead of "than."

"Then" refers to a time. "We went to the store, then we went home."

"Than" is used for comparison. "My car is older than yours."

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To avoid these common misuses of grammar, proofreading and double-checking grammar will help avoid these mistakes.

Remember, grammar skills help create a professional image in the workplace. Employers may view good grammar skills as a sign of attention to detail and professionalism.

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Opinions and Analysis by: Illana Herzig Weintraub

Publisher: MathMedia Educational Software, Inc.

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