How we change what others think, feel, believe and do |
Correctness
Disciplines > Argument > Virtues of Style > Correctness Description | Example | Discussion | See also
DescriptionKnow and use the rules of language.
Above all, be curious. Keep on wondering about the subtler points of language and maintain it within your field of interest. ExampleThem is the animals what I was talking of. (incorrect) Those are the animals about which I was speaking. (correct) DiscussionTalking correctly shows that you understand the language and that you can say what you mean. Particularly amongst upper classes, intelligentsia and academics, correct use of language is also a subtle signal that 'I am well-educated and hence one of you'. Vices of correctness are very commonplace, including using apostrophe's in plurals (like this), mispronunciation, poor syntax and so on. The very complexity of the rules of language makes error not only commonplace but often unrealized. These sentences, no doubt, contain many such errors. A time when it is useful to use incorrect language is when you are seeking to create harmony with the other person by echoing their modes of speech. Some people ('chameleons') do this naturally. As long as it is not seen as parody, this can be an effective way of bonding with others. Correctness is also known as Purity. See also
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| Home | Top | Quick Links | Settings | |
Main sections: | Disciplines | Techniques | Principles | Explanations | Theories | |
Other sections: | Blog! | Quotes | Guest articles | Analysis | Books | Help | |
More pages: | Contact | Caveat | About | Students | Webmasters | Awards | Guestbook | Feedback | Sitemap | Changes | |
Settings: | Computer layout | Mobile layout | Small font | Medium font | Large font | Translate | |
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