Mind Your Language: 8 English grammar rules busted for effective communication

English grammar is the framework that structures how we communicate in the English language. It encompasses a set of rules and guidelines that govern the composition of words, phrases, and sentences. Understanding grammar is essential for both writing and speaking, as it ensures clarity and coherence in conveying ideas.

From the basics of nouns, verbs, and adjectives to more complex structures like clauses and tenses, grammar serves as the foundation for effective communication. While some rules may seem strict, language is dynamic, and real-world usage often allows for flexibility and creativity.

According to Rachna Oberoi, TGT, English at Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg, grammar can be daunting, full of rules and exceptions that seem to change with each generation. However, not everything we’ve been taught about grammar is accurate. Many so-called “rules” are myths that have persisted through the years.                  

“Grammar rules provide structure, but many so-called ‘rules’ are myths. It’s a common misconception that you can’t start a sentence with ‘and’ or ‘but,’ or that split infinitives are always wrong. The passive voice isn’t inherently bad; it can be useful depending on the context. Ending a sentence with a preposition is often more natural in English, despite the myth that it’s incorrect. Even ‘irregardless,’ though frowned upon, is recognised in dialectal use. Understanding the flexibility and historical context of these myths can make us more effective communicators. Language is fluid and evolving, and clinging to outdated rules can hinder our expression,” the educator said.

8 grammar rules busted

Grammar rules in English can often feel rigid and unchangeable, but many so-called “rules” are more flexible than we think. Here, we debunk ten common grammar myths that you might have learned in school.

Never End a Sentence with a Preposition

Myth: You should never end a sentence with a preposition.

Reality: Ending a sentence with a preposition is often more natural and clear. “What are you thinking about?” sounds better than “About what are you thinking?”

Always Use ‘Whom’ for the Object of a Verb

Myth: Use ‘whom’ instead of ‘who’ when it’s the object of a verb.

Reality: While grammatically correct, ‘whom’ often sounds overly formal and is falling out of common usage. “Who did you talk to?” is acceptable in everyday conversation.

Never Split Infinitives

Myth: Infinitives (to + verb) should not be split.

Reality: Sometimes, splitting an infinitive can make a sentence clearer or more emphatic. “To boldly go where no one has gone before” is a famous example.

Use ‘Less’ for Uncountable Nouns and ‘Fewer’ for Countable Nouns

Myth: ‘Less’ is used with uncountable nouns and ‘fewer’ with countable nouns.

Reality: While this rule is generally useful, common usage often bends it. Supermarkets often label “10 items or less” instead of “10 items or fewer.”

Double Negatives are Always Incorrect

Myth: Double negatives are always wrong.

Reality: Double negatives are considered incorrect in standard English, but they are used in some dialects to add emphasis or indicate nuances. For instance, “I can’t get no satisfaction” from the famous song lyric.

Always Use ‘Since’ for Time and ‘Because’ for Reason

Myth: ‘Since’ should only refer to time, and ‘because’ should only indicate a reason.

Reality: ‘Since’ can correctly indicate a reason. “Since you were late, we missed the start of the movie” is correct.

Use ‘A’ Before Consonant Sounds and ‘An’ Before Vowel Sounds

Myth: Use ‘a’ before words that start with consonants and ‘an’ before words that start with vowels.

Reality: The rule depends on sound, not spelling. Therefore, ‘an hour’ is correct because ‘hour’ starts with a vowel sound, while ‘a university’ is correct because ‘university’ starts with a ‘y’ sound.

Always Use Complete Sentences

Myth: Every sentence must be complete with a subject and a verb.

Reality: In informal writing and dialogue, fragments can be effective for emphasis. “Absolutely not!” or “What a day!”

By understanding the flexibility within these grammar “rules,” you can write more naturally and effectively, focusing on clarity and communication rather than rigid adherence to outdated guidelines.