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Jan 22

Learn from others’ mistakes

It’s not difficult to find online examples of spelling, grammar and usage fails that have been run up the flagpole for mockery like somebody’s polka-dot underpants. To some, this seems mean; let’s face it, even the most verbally careful and precise of us has hastily, furiously or drunkenly dashed off a note or blog post that would have been much more impressive if it had been proofread. Let him who is without sin cast teh first stone, yeah?

But if you’re not a grammar gold-medalist, don’t sheepishly avoid those notable fails; you should be seeking them out so you can learn from them. Know your enemy! Understanding how people get things wrong helps in understanding how to get them right. Plus, some of the really spectacular blunders change the intended meaning in hilarious ways. It’s the “Let’s eat, Grandma!” vs. “Let’s eat Grandma!” syndrome. (Shout-out to any zombies reading this.)

Twitter fans may be interested in this roundup of 5 Twitter Accounts That Make English Grammar Interesting. I happen to think grammar is already interesting, but I live a sheltered life.

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