Do You Make These Grammar Mistakes?

Thanks to the internet, email, blogging etc- we have all become very tech savvy in terms of communication. Sending and receiving information has become very easy now. However, along with this development, people have become lax about spelling and grammar in day to day writing. For instance, there is a difference between two similar sounding words that we tend to misuse often. Most of us make horrendous grammar mistakes that are can be avoided by keeping the following information in mind:

1) Your and You’re

Your: It refers to somebody’s possession. It is used while pertaining to something that is controlled or owned by someone. Example- You shouldn’t have forgotten your umbrella, now you are totally drenched.

You’re: It simply means you are. It is often used as a form of contraction. Example- You’re being selfish. Think about others.

2) Than and Then

Than: It is used to introduce the other element in a sentence, or when making a comparison. It can also be used as a source of contrast to show exceptions. Example- As per news reports, this year it rained more than the last year.

Then: It means at that time. It also indicates the same as after that, afterwards or next. Example- Let’s raise a toast first, and then sing and dance.

3) Lie and Lay

Lie: The verb lie refers to a horizontal position to rest and it is not as generic as ‘lay’. Something that remains is also referred to as lie. The noun lie refers to something that is not true, however don’t mistake it for lay. Example- Why don’t you lie on the couch?

Lay: It basically refers to putting something down, or to set something in position. It also refers to the past tense of ‘lie’. Example- Lay your differences aside to be a better human being.

4) Choose or Chose

Choose: This is in the future tense or present tense of making a decision. The extra ‘o’ can lead to confusion between the words- choose and chose. So you need to be careful. Example- I can’t decide between the pink top and black top. Can you help me choose one?

Chose: It is the past tense of choose. When you chose, it means the decision of choosing has already been made. Example- I chose the best jacket for myself. I am happy with my decision.

Likewise, there is a difference between the words ‘insure’ and ‘ensure’, ‘it’ and ‘it’s’, ‘less’ and ‘fewer’, etc. There are a lot more words and phrases that confuse us in daily life. Choose your words correctly. Avoid making these grammar mistakes.

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