How to Know Common English Errors

The easiest way for writers to lose credibility is to make a lot of grammar errors in their writing. There are several common English errors that many readers recognize. Experienced writers are usually astute at recognizing common English errors. Here are some of the most frequently used common English errors:

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Know the difference between accept and except. Accept is a verb that means to receive something. Except means to exclude something. For example, I will accept all the packages except the large one.

2. Watch for the common English error of using adverse verses averse. Adverse means unfavorable and averse means reluctant or opposed. For example, I am averse to taking the new drug because I could have an adverse reaction.

3. Don't misuse affect and effect. Affect is used mostly as a verb that means to influence. Effect is usually a noun. For example, his adverse behavior affects his ability to get good grades. The effects of too much sun can cause cancer. Effect can also be a verb to mean bringing about a change. The President can effect the change necessary to improve the health care situation in the United States.

4. Unless you're writing fiction, don't use ain't.

5. Don't use already to mean all ready. All ready means completely prepared and already means previously. I had been already to go, but my friend had all ready left.

6. Know the difference among there, their and they're.
   
   There is a place. It's also and adverb. Bob is over there.
   
   There is also and expletive. For example, there are people everywhere. There is coffee on the table.
   
   They're is always a contraction for they are.
   
   Their is a possessive pronoun. My brothers finally did their laundry. The car belongs to their friends.

7. Understand the difference between every day and everyday. Every day means every single day. Everyday modifies the word that comes after it as in everyday uses, everyday things, everyday items.

8. Remember that a lot is always two words. Never write alot.

9. Know the difference between than and then. Than is a conjunction used in comparisons. Taking this test is more than I can bare. Then is an adverb denoting time. For example, My sister was running, and then I saw her fall.

10. Recognize the difference among to, too and two. To is a preposition. Too is an adverb and two is a number. For example, I went to the store to buy two gallons of milk. The store was too busy, so I waited until later to buy the milk.

[jillypop13]

on 10/5/2009 I believe #5 needs some revision... it states, "I had been already to go, but my friend had all ready left..." meaning I had been previously to go, but my friend had prepared entirely left.

[carolj1]

on 9/16/2009 I always have trouble with affect and effect. This made it quite clear. Mos excellent!

[matthewvaughan]

on 8/1/2009 Speaking of common errors: a writer can't lose credibility on "their" writing unless he or she are several people.
It's commendable in that it's an attempt at gender-neutrality, but sadly it's still wrong.

[archip99]

on 7/24/2009 Sometimes I may unconsiously write small common english errors which I will realize it after quite some time. Therefore, I draft it 1st before I print out. TQ for sharing.

[dthere]

on 7/15/2009 I used to do step 8 a lot :)...5