Grammar & Mistakes

Introduction English, with its rich history and global reach, presents learners with a myriad of grammatical rules and exceptions. Navigating this intricate landscape can be challenging, leading to common grammar mistakes that hinder effective communication. By identifying these errors and understanding how to correct them, you can significantly improve your language skills. Subject-Verb Agreement Errors Mistake Using a singular verb form with a plural subject or vice versa. Example The list of items are on the desk. Correction The list of items is on the desk. Explanation The subject “list” is singular, so it requires the singular verb “is. Tip to Avoid Identify the true subject of the sentence to ensure it agrees with the verb in number. Misplaced Modifiers Mistake Placing descriptive words or phrases too far from the word they modify, leading to confusion. Example She served sandwiches to the children on paper plates. Correction She served sandwiches on paper plates to the children. Explanation The original sentence implies the children are on paper plates. The correction clarifies that the sandwiches are on paper plates. Tip to Avoid Place modifiers immediately before or after the word they describe. Incorrect Use of Apostrophes Mistake Misplacing apostrophes in possessive nouns and contractions. Example Its a beautiful day.” or “The cat licked it’s paws. Correction It’s a beautiful day.” and “The cat licked its paws. Explanation It’s” is a contraction of “it is,” while “its” denotes possession. Tip to Avoid Use “it’s” only when you mean “it is” or “it has.” For possession, use “its” without an apostrophe. Confusing “Their,” “There,” and “They’re” Mistake Using these homophones interchangeably. Examples 1. “Their going to the park.”2. “The book is over their.”3, “There house is big.” Corrections 1. “They’re going to the park.”2. “The book is over there.”3. “Their house is big.” Explanation 1. “Their” indicates possession.2. “There” refers to a place.3. “They’re” is a contraction of “they are.” Tip to Avoid Associate “there” with “here” (both relate to place) and “their” with “heir” (both relate to possession). Dangling Participles Mistake A participial phrase that doesn’t clearly modify a noun in the sentence. Example Walking down the street, the flowers were beautiful. Correction Walking down the street, I noticed the beautiful flowers. Explanation The original sentence suggests the flowers were walking. The correction clarifies that “I” was walking. Tip to Avoid Ensure the participial phrase directly relates to the noun performing the action. Run-On Sentences Mistake Combining multiple independent clauses without proper punctuation. Example She loves to read she goes to the library often. Correction She loves to read, so she goes to the library often. Explanation Two independent clauses need appropriate punctuation or conjunctions to connect them. Tip to Avoid Use periods, semicolons, or coordinating conjunctions to separate independent clauses. Incorrect Use of Commas Mistake Misplacing commas, leading to confusion or altering the sentence’s meaning. Example Let’s eat, Grandma!” vs. “Let’s eat Grandma! Correction The first sentence invites Grandma to eat; the second suggests eating her. Explanation Proper comma placement clarifies meaning. Tip to Avoid Use commas to separate items in a list, after introductory phrases, and to set off non-essential information. Double Negatives Mistake Using two negative words in a sentence, making the meaning unclear. Example ❌ “I don’t have no money.” (This actually means “I have money”) Correction ✔ “I don’t have any money.”✔ “I have no money.” Explanation Double negatives cancel each other out, which can confuse the meaning. Tip to Avoid Use only one negative word per sentence. How to Improve Your Grammar and Avoid These Mistakes Now that we’ve identified common grammar mistakes, here are practical strategies to improve: Read Regularly Reading well-written books, articles, and blogs exposes you to correct grammar in context. Write and Proofread Practice writing daily and review your work for errors. Reading aloud helps catch mistakes. Use Grammar Tools Online tools like Grammarly and Hemingway Editor can highlight errors and suggest corrections. Take an Online Course A structured learning approach can significantly improve grammar. At EDNEX, we offer comprehensive English courses that help learners master grammar, writing, and communication skills. Practice with Exercises Regularly complete grammar exercises to reinforce learning. FAQs: Common Grammar Mistakes How can I remember subject-verb agreement rules? Identify the main subject first and ensure the verb matches in number. Reading aloud often helps spot errors. What’s the easiest way to know when to use “who” or “whom”? Try replacing with he/she (who) or him/her (whom). If “him” sounds right, use “whom.” How can I avoid confusing “its” and “it’s”? Remember that it’s always means “it is” or “it has.” If that replacement doesn’t work, use its. What’s a good strategy to stop using passive voice? Rewrite the sentence to focus on who is performing the action. For example, change “The book was written by John” to “John wrote the book.” Are grammar mistakes really a big deal? Yes! Poor grammar can make communication unclear and appear unprofessional, especially in writing. How can I learn grammar effectively? Taking a structured course is one of the best ways to learn. Our English grammar courses at EDNX provide step-by-step guidance to help you master English with confidence. Final Thoughts Avoiding common English grammar mistakes is key to clear and effective communication. By paying attention to details, practicing regularly, and learning from structured courses, you can significantly improve your English proficiency.At EDNEX, we offer expert-led courses that help you develop strong grammar skills with practical exercises and real-world examples. Ready to take your English to the next level? Join our courses today! Our Sponsors