by Wilton H. Strickland

Every now and then I offer advice on how to improve one’s writing and avoid unnecessary mistakes (see here and here). Given the ongoing deterioration of language in all walks of life, I felt it was time for another entry on this subject.

“On Accident”

This awkward phrase has grown more and more popular in spoken English — particularly with young people — to signify that something happened accidentally. It’s unclear why the traditional phrase “by accident” is losing ground. Whatever the reason, your writing should use the traditional phrase or bridge the generation gap by opting for other terms such as “accidentally,” “unintentionally,” or “by mistake.”

“Everyday” Versus “Every Day”

The confusion between these two very different expressions appears to be growing . . . everyday or every day? “Everyday” is an adjective that modifies a noun to mean that it is commonplace, such as “everyday traffic.” By contrast, “every day” is its own phrase that means each day, such as when noticing that the sun rises “every day” or that the misuse of language is growing “every day.”

“Who” Versus “That”

The first of these signifies people, while the second signifies anything else. College graduates who misuse language annoy me, almost as much as dogs that continuously bark.

“Woman” Versus “Women”

A large number of writers tend to write “women” when referring to a single woman. It’s difficult for me to fathom this mistake because when I see the word “women” I automatically sound it out in my mind as wih – men, whereas the written word “woman” makes my mind hear woh – man. Apparently, others see “women” and hear woh – man, so I hope they can repair their internal acoustics and recall that this word is plural, not singular.

“There” Versus “They’re” Versus “Their”

These words may sound similar but carry different meanings. “There” is a location or an introductory pronoun. “They’re” is the contraction of “they are.” “Their” is a possessive. Strange as it may seem, a large number of people have trouble distinguishing these terms in writing.

“Your” Versus “You’re”

“Your” is possessive, while “you’re” is the contraction of “you are.” Your confusion of these two terms can be eliminated if you’re willing to try.

“Imply” Versus “Infer”

To imply means to hint at something without directly stating it. To infer means to believe something even though it was not directly stated. A common error is to use “infer” when meaning “imply,” as follows:

Incorrect:  “You inferred that Bob is a crook when stating that his lifestyle far exceeds his salary.”

Correct: “You implied that Bob is a crook when stating that his lifestyle far exceeds his salary.”

Correct: “I inferred from your statement that Bob is a crook.”

“The Reason Why”

This phrase is redundant. You can explain the reason that something happened or why it happened, but not both.

Cake – Eating And Having

A popular phrase is that “you can’t have your cake and eat it.” Actually, you can. You have it, then you eat it. If what you’re trying to say is that it’s impossible to eat your cake and still have it, you should say so: “You can’t eat your cake and have it.” Confusion about this is longstanding and widespread, so getting it right will make you stand out from the crowd.

“Discreet” Versus “Discrete”

The difference between these two words is not a question of mere spelling aesthetics, but rather fundamental meanings. To be “discreet” is to stay low-key and attract little notice. To be “discrete” is to be separate or different. For instance, there are two discrete kinds of wealthy people: those who flaunt their wealth, and those who prefer to remain discreet about it.

“Compliment” Versus “Complement”

These words can be used as nouns or verbs, but their meaning remains distinct in either form. To “compliment” means to make an admiring remark. To “complement” means to complete or enhance.

That’s enough for now. Happy writing!