Re: How to deal with incorrect editing
That's what conventions of grammar are about -- communicating.That depends on what you mean by "grammar."
In the prescriptive sense in which the word is usually used, grammar is about communicating according to a specific set of rules. It is not in the least concerned with communicating effectively.
Notice, for instance, that a statement that is grammatically incorrect by perscriptive standards is often far more colorful than a correctly structured remark. That's why most change to English comes from groups whose speech doesn't fit the educated norm. These groups are focused on what counts, and not an artifical standard.
Demonizing those who care about correct writing may be satisfying toA neat return, but Andrew does have a point. Knowledge of the rules of grammar is often used as a weapon against people. In an argument, correcting the other person's grammar is often a form of ad hominem attack.
some, but it can really irritate people.
At any rate, I would suggest that to be concerned about writing correctly is to be sidetracked. A writer's concern should be writing effectively. When following a definition of grammar helps that, follow it by all means. When it doesn't, then I'd happily throw grammar away if by doing so I can get a stronger result.
You are precisely the people whose writing needs to be made suitableYes, sometimes, managers have to be edited so they don't make themselves - and their companies - look stupid. But if you're going to provide this service, you need to know how to choose your battles.
for consumption.
--
Bruce Byfield bbyfield -at- axionet -dot- com 604.421.7177
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That into rags would rend you,
And the spirits that stand by the naked man
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References:
Re: How to deal with incorrect editing: From: Andrew Plato
Re: How to deal with incorrect editing: From: Bonnie Granat
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