Correcting Common English Grammar and Usage Errors

Miscellaneous Corrections

Although he won't know the answer, there is no harm in asking.

Social Activities and Hobbies

Ballroom dancing is not popular with young people nowadays.

Board games are not very common today.

Everyone who is in favour of the excursion should say yes.

Exceptions and Exclusions

Everyone came to the party, with the exception of Karen.

Everyone failed the exam, with the exception of Sally.

Relationships and Compatibility

Harold and his wife appear to have nothing in common with each other.

Competence and Ability

He isn't competent to do the job.

Health Advice

His doctor told him to cut down on smoking cigarettes.

Realization and Surprise

It didn't occur to me that he was lying.

It came as no surprise to her that she had been fired.

Business and Finance

It would be in the interests of the company to upgrade its computers.

It would be a waste of money to buy him an expensive toy.

I was always short of money as a student.

I am not cut out for the outdoor life.

Reactions and Feelings

I was rather taken aback by the exam.

I have no objection to your going out.

I am not to blame for the bus's late arrival.

I was at a loss for words when I saw the damage to my cars.

I was surprised at the sight of Gill covered in mud.

I have no objection to your bringing Julie to the party.

I can't be alone in believing that there is life on other planets.

I can't make sense of his handwriting at all.

Social Interactions

John imposed on us by coming to the party uninvited.

Jack didn't give any explanation for his absence the previous day.

Jane complimented me on my new hairstyle.

Mr Green prides himself on his beautiful garden.

Creative Works and Achievements

Mozart has been credited with writing this symphony.

Ambition and Wealth

Many people will go to great lengths to get rich.

Environmental Concerns

Many ecologists have expressed their concern about the new problem.

Appearance and Perception

Roy wore a hat in the vain hope that they wouldn't notice his new haircut.

She took offence when you said she was fat.

Expectations and Failures

• Some new flats are under construction in the town centre.
• The play fell short of my expectations.

Natural Events and Limitations

The river burst its banks during the storm.

There's no point in trying to open it with that key.

Accidents and Responsibility

The van was being driven by Bill, not Jim, when it crashed.

The letter was not of your concern.

Resource Availability

The computer room is at the disposal of postgraduate students.

Legal Procedures

The defendant insisted on his lawyer's being present before answering any questions.

Demand for Professionals

There is a demand for mathematics teachers in schools.

Disruption and Cancellation

The bad weather put paid to their holiday plans.

Public Response

There was little response to the police appeal for information.

The book doesn't come across to me as being very optimistic.

The new teacher met with the students' approval.

There is a total ban on alcoholic drinks in the stadium.

Application Processes

They will not take into consideration any late applications for the post.

Consequences

The heavy rain resulted in flooding in many areas.

General Observations

• There was hardly anyone at my party.
• There is high demand for computers.
• We knew Mary was responsible for the graffiti.

Acceptance

We have to come to terms with our limitations.

Uncertainty

Without a timetable, I have no way of knowing what time the bus will come.

Similarity

Your brother bears a resemblance to Elvis Presley.

Generational Views

Young people take everything for granted these days.