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About Anne Benington
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
I can answer questions about English grammar, style, usage. I can also help a writer assess the development of an essay, its unity, concrete support of topics, introductions and conclusions. In addition, I can discuss "writing the research paper" in all aspects of its development. Finally, I can assist in development of creative writing assignments. I will not totally proofread and correct a paper, but I will point out areas of concern and ways a writer can discover weaknesses and how to correct them.

Experience
20 years teaching high school English including 10 years teaching AP English literature; four years teaching college composition

Education/Credentials
BS St. Mary of the Woods College, Indiana MA University of Notre Dame, Indiana Post graduate work: University of Michigan, University of Pittsburg

Awards and Honors
Crystal Apple Outstanding Teacher of the Year award--1995--Awarded yearly to four teachers in all schools, public, private and parochial, in the Middletown, Edgewood, Madison school dictricts, Ohio. Archdiocese of Cincinnati Innovative Teaching Award 1996. Teacher of the Year Award, Fenwick High School, Middletown, OH, 2002,

   

You are here:  Experts > Arts/Humanities > Writing > General Writing and Grammar Help

Questions Answered By Expert  Anne Benington 
In Category  General Writing and Grammar Help

SubjectDate Asked

Paraphrasing and Citation11/4/2009
  Q: I'm hoping you will be able to provide me with some clarity as I start writing a research paper for ...
  A: The most important rule to avoid plagiarism is this: If you did not know the information before you ...
participial phrases & italics11/4/2009
  Q: I am unsure of the role of "named" in this sentence: A man named Tarzan lived on an island. * ...
  A: Number 2 is an appositive. No, you do not need to italicize 44's unless you want to set it apart. ...
participial phrases & italics11/3/2009
  Q: I am unsure of the role of "named" in this sentence: A man named Tarzan lived on an island. * ...
  A: Yes, "named" is a past participle of the verb "to name" and modifies the word man: the "named man" ...
revivify11/3/2009
  Q: A colleague asserts that the suffix -ify should not be used to change a verb into another verb. So ...
  A: The verb "revivify" is a legitimate transitive verb meaning to impart new life, energy or spirit. ...
participles, gerunds, and infinitives10/31/2009
  Q: I am supposed to combine the sentences below by changing one of the verbs into a gerund, a ...
  A: The gerunds needed correction. Please look at my suggestions: ...
Writing to correct wrongs and to rectify entry again :) please help with writing10/28/2009
  Q: ITs me Lucia again, Can you please fix the writing before I submit it: Addressing concern 1: The ...
  A: Here are the corrections to your text: ___________________________________________________________ ...
auxiliaries10/25/2009
  Q: 1. Do both conversations below make sense? A: Did you make any mistakes on the exam yesterday? B: I ...
  A: Oppo, Yes both conversations in # 1 and #2 are correct and make sense. 3.In the two ...
auxiliaries10/24/2009
  Q: Ex: I am too busy to call John today. I will call him tomorrow. Can I use the auxiliary “can”, ...
  A: Oppo, I'm sorry you did not like my last response. I'll try again. "I can call him tomorrow" ...
Grammer10/19/2009
  Q: I have a grammar question. Given the sentence "It was the governor who requested that a famous ...
  A: This is what we call the "subjunctive case" or "subjunctive mood" in English. In grammar, the ...
sentences10/18/2009
  Q: 1. Turn around! You are going the wrong way. Make a U-turn! You are going the wrong way. Do both ...
  A: 1. A U-Turn is a specific move, a sharp turn. To "turn around" does not necessarily mean a u-turn. ...
Interview10/18/2009
  Q: I am supposed to write a two paged paper about the life of a famous Hispanic person for a class. My ...
  A: That should be an interesting paper. First you must choose a person who interests you. Then you ...
sentences10/16/2009
  Q: 1. Ex: Drug abuse is more common than ever before in our society, especially among the youth. Drugs ...
  A: 1. Yes, you can say "in young people" which is probably the preferred phrase. We would say "among ...
Religion10/16/2009
  Q: I read an article on the fact the Barack Obama supports a priest named Carey Cash and Carey Cash ...
  A: Here is your text with some suggestions; I believe I have eliminated at least 20 words: ...
Grammar9/30/2009
  Q: 1. Ex: Are you seeing anyone special these days? Are you seeing someone special these days? Are ...
  A: 1. Both sentences are correct and there is really very little difference in meaning. 2. You ...
Grammar9/27/2009
  Q: 1. I am under the impression that the time phrase “by (or at) the end of the month” is often used ...
  A: Yes, you may use "by" or "at" in the past tense. Here are some examples: "I was at the doctor's ...
Grammar9/27/2009
  Q: 1. I have heard this McDonald’s slogan quite a lot---I am loving it! What does it exactly mean when ...
  A: 1. "I'm loving it!" means that, at this moment, in this situation, I'm having a great time. Let's ...
sentences9/25/2009
  Q: 1. I always feel like relaxing on the couch after a day’s work. I feel like a fool every time when ...
  A: 1. Yes, both uses of "feel like" are the same. 2. "Line" means "are part of". You could say, ...
sentences9/24/2009
  Q: 1. According to a newspaper poll in 1983, Ann Landers, an advice columnist, was regarded as one of ...
  A: 1. This is a tough one to answer since "poll" and "questionnaire" do not mean the same thing in ...
word usage9/22/2009
  Q: Which is correct: at our July meeting to convene a special call meeting... or at our July meeting ...
  A: I believe you want to say, "At our July meeting to convene a specially called meeting,....." The ...
Using alittle more9/21/2009
  Q: I want to ask about what a little more means in this sentence and how can l use it:- Everytime l ...
  A: We use the phrase " a little more" quite often. It means to increase slowly. So, the person who ...
Grammar9/20/2009
  Q: 1. Ex: Do you understand the finer meanings of the adverb? What is meant by the word “finer”? ...
  A: 1. Yes, "subtle" is a good translation. 2. "Yet" is not used in only a negative context. We often ...
Grammar question9/20/2009
  Q: ia m writing this letter to my ex boyfriend and dont want it to sound too pushy but I want to tell ...
  A: I think your first message to him should be about missing his friendship and asking if it is ...
both..and .. grammar9/18/2009
  Q: I'd like to ask the grammar about both...and... I want to combine two sentences. Which one is ...
  A: The most common sentence would be "Both my father and mother drive cars." This means that each has ...
Pronouns & Antecedents9/18/2009
  Q: Is it correct to have as an antecedent a noun that is used as an adjective? Example: The bear ...
  A: I became more intrigued by your question and started to do more research. The following is a ...
Pronouns & Antecedents9/17/2009
  Q: Is it correct to have as an antecedent a noun that is used as an adjective? Example: The bear ...
  A: In this sentence, "The bear tracks could be easily seen in the snow. He was a large bear trying to ...
predicting the weather9/16/2009
  Q: Is there any point in predicting the weather when we have no control over it?1) whats your notes on ...
  A: The questioner is asking you to think about this question and give your own views. The questioner ...
meaning of the words "just' and "simply"9/16/2009
  Q: What is the meaning of the words "just" and "simply" in the following sentences? 1."You shouldn't ...
  A: In your examples #1 and #2, "just" and "simply" mean the same thing. Often we use the word "just" ...
Colon usage9/13/2009
  Q: The King James Bible translation of the second commandment reads: A. Exo 20:4 Thou shalt not make ...
  A: The grammatical definition of colon is this: "Use a colon at the end of a complete statement to ...
an9/12/2009
  Q: She would only like to ask if the position of (an)English teacher at your university is still ...
  A: In English we would say, "She would only like to ask if the position of English teacher at your ...
conversations9/5/2009
  Q: 1. A: Wouldn’t you like me to fax this for you? B: I haven’t faxed it. According to my grammar ...
  A: Yes, your response to the "fax" sentence is a correct one. For this one, "Where can I check in for ...
dinner/lunch/supper9/5/2009
  Q: Sometimes I get confused about dinner/lunch/supper. It seems to me that Britons and Americans use ...
  A: Our meals in the United States are quite regulated. Yes, we have breakfast in the morning before we ...
sentences9/4/2009
  Q: 1. Ex: If a person is very smart and talented, if others can’t count on him then it’s useless no ...
  A: Sentence #1 is a bit confusing. If a person concentrates, he or she can understand the meaning but ...
a sentence9/1/2009
  Q: I know that the sentence below is correct: Had it not been for my dissatisfaction with life, I ...
  A: Luke, I believe my paraphrase says the same thing. You were dissatisfied with your state in life ...
a sentence9/1/2009
  Q: I know that the sentence below is correct: Had it not been for my dissatisfaction with life, I ...
  A: Greetings Luke, Good to hear from you. Yes, you are correct in saying that the sentence is rather ...
tense9/1/2009
  Q: I' d like to check the tense of the sentence. #1 There is a big soccer game today. #2 There will be ...
  A: Yes, both sentences are correct. You will find that #1 is used in spoken English most often, in ...
Correct grammar8/30/2009
  Q: Is it correct to say "Kathy and me" or "Kathy and I"? Is it correct to say "Which jobs will be the ...
  A: Love your name, mine is Anne Marie too!! There are two correct answers to your question. If you ...
conversations8/30/2009
  Q: 1. Follow up questions I have edited my answers and please help me proofread them again. (1.) A: ...
  A: (1) "After looking at your answer to problem 10, is it possible you might choose another answer?" ...
conversations8/29/2009
  Q: Do all the conversations below make sense? A: When did you know John? B: I knew him in high ...
  A: Most are correct. I have a comment about the second to the last sentence; our response would be ...
education8/24/2009
  Q: why do we prounoncce "t" in pizza although we don't it?
  A: You are right, it does sound like we pronounce the "t" sound in pizza. In the English language, we ...
Grammar8/23/2009
  Q: 1. What’s the difference between “give me a high five” and “give me five”? 2. A: What do you call ...
  A: There is little difference between "give me a high five" and "give me five." We now use "give me ...
where is she, where is her, where she is8/14/2009
  Q: where is she, where is her, where she is, which one is correct? thanks!
  A: The correct answer is "Where is she?" The reason is that the form of the verb "to be" (is) must be ...
Essay8/12/2009
  Q: How do I quote: "difficult pleasure";you just didn't recognize it as pleasure of any sort."
  A: Are these the exact words and do you know the person or source you are quoting? If this is all you ...
English grammar8/7/2009
  Q: Would you please give example sentences using the verb "to be" in the future continuous tense and ...
  A: An example of the future continuous tense and the verb "to be" is this sentence: "I will be ...
writing help please for invoice8/6/2009
  Q: I run a lawn mowing business and need a polite yet business oriented invoice that you could re-write ...
  A: Perhaps you have the business form drawn up already and just need these ideas to add to it. Am I ...
Grammar8/5/2009
  Q: I would like to ask you two questions: 1-How can I use the Passive Voice? 2- How can I develop an ...
  A: Here is an example of passive voice; the action is not done by the speaker: "THE PAPER WAS WRITTEN ...
medicine's main priority8/4/2009
  Q: I'm doing some own revision for my essays in my exams. The question is "Which should be medicine's ...
  A: "What should be medicine's main priority---the quality or the length of life." I don't know what ...
Uncensored press8/3/2009
  Q: i)Can you give some clear examples, please? ii) what are suggestion & area of discussion on the ...
  A: "Assess the claim that an uncensored press is dangerous." In a free society, such as we have here ...
Content8/2/2009
  Q: "Would education be improved if it took place at home by means of modern technology?" What is your ...
  A: "Would education be improved if it took place at home by means of modern technology?" This ...
Grammar8/2/2009
  Q: 1. Participate in a meeting/ party/ club/ class/discussion/ tour/ Join a ...
  A: Oppo, 1. No, the two sentences do not have exactly the same meaning all the time. To join a club, ...
essay7/31/2009
  Q: I have to write a college admisson essay and was wondering if you could tell me if it sounds good or ...
  A: I've made some corrections to grammar and content. Should your essay be a certain length? It seems ...
Grammar7/31/2009
  Q: 1. Ex: John’s grandmother didn’t approve of his going to Japan on his graduation trip alone. ...
  A: 1. John's grandmother did not agree with his decision to go to Japan on his graduation trip alone. ...
English Grammar7/29/2009
  Q: I was wondering if you could help me on these questions: 1. Is the complement (be it subjective or ...
  A: 1. I'm not sure what other part of speech you are considering. Nouns, pronouns or adjectives are ...
Presentation7/28/2009
  Q: Hai, do you mind explain & describe to me what this whole sentence means, please "Television sex and ...
  A: "Television sex and violence does not mould societal values, it merely mirrors them." In this ...
Conversations7/24/2009
  Q: Do all the conversations below make sense? A: Do you think we should tell John about this? B: ...
  A: I made corrections in the following two conversations; the others are correct. A: Where did you ...
use of had in a sentence7/24/2009
  Q: Is it wrong to use the word "had" in the sentence We had sent you a letter.............
  A: Your use of "had" is absolutely correct. This verb form is called the past perfect and is used to ...
translating7/22/2009
  Q: Are these good answers to theWhat do you do? 1. I've been trying to deal with translating for the ...
  A: Here are my suggestions. 1. I've been working on translations for the last two years. 2. I've ...
Sentences7/21/2009
  Q: What would be appropriate to say - This is a CONVERSATION round or This is a CONVERSATIONAL round ? ...
  A: Now that you have told me that these phrases are part of an interview, I understand more clearly how ...
Grammar7/12/2009
  Q: 1. We hold a farewell party when we want to say good-bye to a friend or coworker who's going to ...
  A: 1. Yes, we do hold farewell parties, but we don't use the word "farewell" in conversations. We ...
word choices7/10/2009
  Q: 1. Ex: Because we preview the chapter first, we can ask about any problems we are having with the ...
  A: 1. Yes, it would be better to say "Sine we have previewed the chapter...". You should say,"ask ...
word choices7/10/2009
  Q: 1. Ex: There are 3 important ways for me to prepare for an important test. Should I write “3” or ...
  A: So good to hear from you again. Here are the responses: 1. Yes, in English, any number under ten ...
feeling7/9/2009
  Q: Now would you help me understand the expression of feeling? #1 I have wanted to go there for a ...
  A: Verb forms convey nuances in meaning. For example, #1 means that you "have wanted" to go somewhere ...
tense7/8/2009
  Q: I'd like to ask about " simple present" and " present progressive" #1 Though I was born in New ...
  A: Yes, both sentences are correct, and technically there is no difference in the two. They both ...
before7/1/2009
  Q: i have a little problem with a preposition before in past tenses. which way is the correct one: i ...
  A: We would say, "I had grown up before I realized it," or "I grew up before I realized it." Or, we ...
A Mermaid's Tale6/26/2009
  Q: I've always loved the mythical story of Icarus and being an amateur singer/songwriter I decided to ...
  A: Your work is very creative, and this is a story that captures the imagination of all lovers of ...
grammar6/19/2009
  Q: ARE THESE CORRECT? 1. Removing cows and pigs is not the solution. 2. Removal of cows and pigs is ...
  A: 1. Yes, "removing" is a gerund and takes a singular verb. Likewise, "removal" takes a singular ...
Lnaguage6/19/2009
  Q: What's the difference between "in doing so" and "in so doing"? It seems that they are the same but ...
  A: You are correct, there is no real difference in the two phrases. However, "in so doing" often ...
myself6/17/2009
  Q: I'm just wondering when I should use "myself" and when to omit it? 1. I recollected myself that I ...
  A: The three sentences should be written as follows: 1. We would not use a sentence in this way. We ...
Wouldn't you and don't you..6/17/2009
  Q: Could you explain to me what is the difference between wouldn't you and don't you? is Wouldn't you ...
  A: In general, the use of "wouldn't" is more polite. For example, "I wouldn't sit on that chair since ...
contextual analysis6/16/2009
  Q: In an essay, Joan Didion wrote: in Las Vegas, there is no "time," no night and no day and no past ...
  A: What Joan Didion is trying to say is that, in Las Vegas, where one is isolated from "reality," shall ...
quiet and calm5/25/2009
  Q: Would you give me some comment? #1 He kept quiet. Can I use " calm " instead of " quiet" to ...
  A: No, the word "calm" means that his emotions were under control. He is not overly excited. "Quiet" ...
Plagiarism?5/21/2009
  Q: If you have a report to do and you have to research articles online for it and you reword the ...
  A: Before I start, did you "cite" any of this in your paper? If so, what did you cite? Remember that ...
Plagiarism?5/21/2009
  Q: If you have a report to do and you have to research articles online for it and you reword the ...
  A: The way you have rewritten the sentence is called "paraphrasing," or putting an idea into your own ...
English Grammar5/20/2009
  Q: Which is the correct way to say the following: My goal is for my dad and me to raise $1600? Is it ...
  A: The correct sentence is "My goal is for my dad and me to raise $1600." The word "for" is a ...
Word useage5/19/2009
  Q: Which is correct: Recreation Facility or Recreational Facility
  A: Technically, "recreational facility" is grammatically correct since "recreational" is an adjective ...
english grammar5/19/2009
  Q: for female we use only her. but for mail we use either his or him. in the following sentence why him ...
  A: Why do we use "his" and not "the"? Perhaps several people are working on a project and each has a ...
grammar, usage, style5/13/2009
  Q: Can you give me a source to a rule for maximum length of material inside parentheses? Would you ...
  A: I went to the online writing lab at Purdue University to satisfy my response to your question. ...
punctuation5/12/2009
  Q: Which sentence is punctuated correctly, and why? To save money we stayed at a relative’s house ...
  A: The answer would be "none of the above". The sentence should read, "To save money, we stayed at a ...
Can you please edit this speech for me?5/11/2009
  Q: We're doing speeches at school and I've written mine out but it's quite boring and not that good. I ...
  A: I think you have written a good essay. Has your teacher asked you not to use "you" in your writing? ...
Her vs. She5/3/2009
  Q: In the following sentence, "I would have done it exactly as she." I believe she is correct but most ...
  A: You are correct to say "I would have done it exactly as she (had done it)." I inserted the part of ...
sentence structure4/23/2009
  Q: .. Would you define this sentence as simple or complex? This is the impetus that allows him to ...
  A: A complex sentence is defined as having one main clause and at least one subordinate clause. Your ...
is vs. are4/23/2009
  Q: Which of the following is correct? -- Once the number of iterations are complete... -- Once the ...
  A: Grammatically the correct phrase would be, "There is a number of reasons why," but in everyday ...
grammar4/22/2009
  Q: I have two questions about grammar. 1. "On the village green, where you pick up sides and no ...
  A: 1. The sentence is incorrect as written. There should be no colon after the word "exercise". ...
conversations4/18/2009
  Q: Do all the conversations below make sense? A: Are all the buses in good condition?/ Are all the ...
  A: Yes, all of the sentences are correct except for "A" in the last one. I think you mean: "Peter ...
usage we/us4/18/2009
  Q: in the following sentence which word we or us is correct and why "The government gave millions of ...
  A: The sentence is actually, "The government gave millions of dollars to us, farmers." The word "to" ...
story4/17/2009
  Q: Hey Anne it's me and I just finished up my story. Please tell me if you have any corrections or ...
  A: Here is your edited text; make sure to use commas after introductory phrases. I have added them to ...
subject4/15/2009
  Q: I really hate my english teacher he told us that we have to use 20 words (listed below) to write a ...
  A: Many of the words would fit being at sea or on the ocean. You could write about a fisherman or a ...
Past & Present tense sentences4/14/2009
  Q: I hope you can help! Trying to clarify if you can use past & present tense in same sentence? "She ...
  A: Yes, you may use two tenses in a sentence. For example, if a person did something in the past but ...
WRITING4/14/2009
  Q: I was told the following has errors. I tried and could not see any. This is part of my website. ...
  A: I have edited your text below: _____________________________________________ Bipolar disease ...
take / takes4/13/2009
  Q: I'm a Portuguese translator and I have a grammar question... I'm not able to find the answer for it, ...
  A: Actually the first sentence is incorrect. It should read "The Wimbledon Tennis Championship takes ...
WRITING4/13/2009
  Q: Is it legal or ethical to copy maybe a few large paragraphs or a page from an author or lecturer ...
  A: You may use information on the Web as long as you give a complete citation for the information AND ...
grammar4/13/2009
  Q: should you say if i was you or if i were you?
  A: The correct phase is "If I were you..." The reason is that the sentence is said in a conditional ...
grammar4/8/2009
  Q: Can liable also mean applicable? So can the question "I am not liable to return the things that do ...
  A: No, "liable" and "applicable" mean two different things. "Applicable" means "relevant" or "capable ...
Grammar4/8/2009
  Q: What is the grammar rule regarding the -er ending versus adding the word 'more'? when do you use ...
  A: The following rules are applied when using the comparative: 1- One-syllable adjectives add -er to ...
MLA Format4/7/2009
  Q: I am an expert on this board in the field of funerals etc... First thank you for participating on ...
  A: I would not consider this to be plagiarism unless it was proved that your son copied the notes and ...
grammar4/7/2009
  Q: Is the construction"I am/am not liable to return things which do not belong to my daughter" ...
  A: The adjective "liable" means obligated according to law; responsible. So you might substitute the ...
correct sentences4/7/2009
  Q: Could you explain to me, meaning of these sentences. 1. This advance was converted into share ...
  A: The first two, # 1 and # 2 are both correct since they both indicate action that happened in the ...
Sentences4/5/2009
  Q: 1.Do both sentences of each set have identical meanings? He is holding his head. He is holding his ...
  A: 1. No, the sentences here have different meanings."He is holding his head" means that either he has ...
English grammar, usage of him/his4/4/2009
  Q: In this format which would be more appropriate, him or his? ...... Matt practicing for the big game ...
  A: Both "practicing" and "performing" are gerunds in this sentence and act as nouns. Therefore, the ...
Writing a novel.4/4/2009
  Q: This is a sample of one of my concerns. Should I use Italics to represent thoughts, and is it ...
  A: You are correct to put EXACT thoughts in quotation marks. It is the same as if he said something ...
the probability is that ... vs. the probabilities are ...4/3/2009
  Q: Ms. Benington, I try to solve whatever questions I run into by myself as much as possible, but this ...
  A: The sentence as written is correct. You do not need the plural form of "probability" since you are ...
Grammar4/2/2009
  Q: 1. Do all the sentences in each group have identical meanings? Is the paper discounted at 15% ? Is ...
  A: 1. The only one that has a different meaning is the third. "We delivered your order three days ago" ...
commas4/1/2009
  Q: Anne, Thank you very much for the reply. I observe that there are verbs in each of the clauses ...
  A: Initial introductory phrases always have commas after them before the main clause and at the start ...
driver or driver's license4/1/2009
  Q: Should the card in my wallet and the sign on the DMV building say driver license or driver's ...
  A: Yes, it should say "driver's license" because the word driver show's ownership or possession. In ...
commas3/31/2009
  Q: Anne, Thank you very much for the reply. I observe that there are verbs in each of the clauses ...
  A: I had a feeling you were going to ask about those sentences because, technically you are correct. ...
This sentence confuses me a lot3/30/2009
  Q: There's a sentence written like this "First, as God’s adopted children we are loved no less than is ...
  A: You are correct. You do not need to use inversion. You may say, "Cows are farm animals no less than ...
This sentence confuses me a lot3/30/2009
  Q: There's a sentence written like this "First, as God’s adopted children we are loved no less than is ...
  A: It is correct to use "is" in this sentence. In the sentence you have two elements: "we ARE" ...
parallel construction3/30/2009
  Q: Please tell me whether or not the comma is required after the introductory phrase or clause in the ...
  A: Leeroy, and no, you are not wearing out your welcome :-) I have rewritten your sentences, as I ...
parallel construction3/30/2009
  Q: Please tell me whether or not the comma is required after the introductory phrase or clause in the ...
  A: Sorry about the "rationale" mistake; my fingers were going slower than my brain! Yes, style ...
Sentences3/29/2009
  Q: 1. Do all the sentences in each group below have identical meaning? Please also help me proofread ...
  A: "Heating system" and heater are different things. A "heater" is usually a portable device to give ...
parallel construction3/29/2009
  Q: Please tell me whether or not the comma is required after the introductory phrase or clause in the ...
  A: I will be glad to help with the question of commas. Yes, a comma should be used after an ...
conversations3/27/2009
  Q: Do all the conversations below make sense? A: I can’t finish these donuts now. /I can’t leave my ...
  A: A. To whom will you give the lock? ( In modern conversation, you will hear most frequently, "Who ...
conversations3/26/2009
  Q: Do all the conversations below make sense? A: It looks like you don’t even know how to handle the ...
  A: I have made some suggested correction: _______________________________________________ A. I've had ...
2 grammar questions3/26/2009
  Q: Anne. A couple of questions for you: 1. I heard a song tonight ("Get Ready" by the Temptations) ...
  A: 1. In the sentence, "I've never met a girl who makes me feel the way that you do," is grammatically ...
Countable - Non Countable3/25/2009
  Q: why we can count Animal ? and we can't count fruit & furniture Example: An Animal , Some Fruit , ...
  A: We can count animals. We do say, "I saw some animals at the zoo." However, if you are speaking ...
Career Goal3/23/2009
  Q: I had written an essay regarding my career gal and objective. Can you please review it and give me ...
  A: The following is your letter with comments in capital letters: ...
Grammar3/23/2009
  Q: 1. Staff (of) an environmental group will hold a meeting in the Hilton Hotel. Staff (of) an ...
  A: Oppo, 1. Use "of" in all the sentences. 2. The first use of "clue" is idiomatic. It means the ...
Stylistic Questions About Internship Application Essay3/22/2009
  Q: it's much appreciated. I wrote an essay as part of my White House Internship application, and I ...
  A: Below is the corrected version of your essay; I have included several areas that I find unclear or ...
initial concepts3/22/2009
  Q: I've got one more question this weekend. Thank you for the last answer, it was helpful. At the end ...
  A: Because of the use of a comma, I assume that Shaughn McGrath designed the initial concepts of ...
acknowledgements3/21/2009
  Q: One musician from the band wanted to thank his manager with whom he worked for many years and said: ...
  A: 1. "Teaching me the whole equation" means that his manager taught him everything that he needed to ...
question about english grammer.3/21/2009
  Q: I wanted to know,whether there is any grammatical errors in the following sentences given below: ...
  A: It's Anne here. Below are the corrections for your text in capital letters; also the word "I" in ...
How to address an instructor3/19/2009
  Q: I am a studying in a university and often have to write emails to my instructors. I want to know ...
  A: In the United States, students address their instructors as "Professor Jones," or "Dr. Jones" if he ...
question3/10/2009
  Q: I have two questions. 1. To be surprised by joy is the most wonderful thing, to be reminded that ...
  A: 1. Your paraphrase is perfect. Good job!!! 2. I think "more than a few on board" means that they ...
get out of the way...3/9/2009
  Q: Someone is talking about songs and how they come up with them and he suddenly says: For our songs, ...
  A: Yes, that is his message when he says "you have to get out of the way." This means that the songs ...
Use of which/that3/9/2009
  Q: I am proofreading an Annual Report. I have in front of me the sentence: "...the terms now are more ...
  A: Ian, A non-essential clause can be a subordinate clause. Any subordinate clause needs a main clause ...
Use of "which" and "that"3/9/2009
  Q: I am proofreading an Annual Report. I have in front of me the sentence: "...the terms now are more ...
  A: Here is the general rule; I hope this helps, but if you need more examples, please let me know: ...
conversations3/8/2009
  Q: Do all the convesations below make sense? A: What’s your plan for summer vacation? B: It’s about ...
  A: A: What’s your plan for summer vacation? B: It’s about time I took a vacation. (Omit "the") A: ...
conversations3/8/2009
  Q: 1. Do all the conversations below make sense? A: When did you get a highlight at the salon? B: I ...
  A: I made some corrections that you will see in capital letters: ...
adjectives, commas, modifying nouns3/6/2009
  Q: I do medical transcritption and physicians always dictate in phrases. I have one provider that is ...
  A: I can understand your frustration. I belive you are asking if commas should be used after "mild" ...
rout etc.3/5/2009
  Q: When the international campaign (Jubilee 2000) disbanded in 2001 we had a lot of momentum going, in ...
  A: No, they are saying that when the international campaign ended in 2000 and the people responsible ...
short passage3/4/2009
  Q: In a strange way our tour became a sort of emblem of what America was. The shows after 9/11 were ...
  A: 1. Yes, the tour changed its tone so that it mirrored what was happening in the American ...
go to + article3/4/2009
  Q: I'm teaching English to adults in Japan and I was asked why we don't need an article or pronoun ...
  A: When we say, "Go to the school" we are referring to a specific place. When we say "Go to school" we ...
good vs. well3/3/2009
  Q: During a discussion with my parents, I fell into the old "Good vs. Well" debate. I was always taught ...
  A: You are correct in noting that the connotation of the word is important here. The person who wants ...
bringing me back3/3/2009
  Q: There is a man who's thinking about the death, probably of his father or mother and he says: It's ...
  A: I think he is saying that after reading about the man and Africa and his experiences with death, it ...
Two questions for you3/3/2009
  Q: I have two questions for you that could put an end to heated debate I am having with a colleague. ...
  A: 1. You would always use double quotation marks unless there is a quote inside another quote. 2. ...
a thousand ....2/23/2009
  Q: That was a great moment, for all those who has struggled for so long to bring peace to Ireland, but ...
  A: 1. He is saying that the MOMENT was great not only for the people who are trying to bring about ...
Sentence development2/23/2009
  Q: I am working on a project on the topic of suicide for a life-span development course I am taking and ...
  A: I believe that the material you gave me is succinct and descriptive. I have put it together in a ...
grammar2/22/2009
  Q: I have another question about the grammar with the following sentence. "Education, with its cycles ...
  A: Yes, theoretically this sentence is grammatically correct, but it is not typical since the sentence ...
head up...2/22/2009
  Q: It was helpful. When you're playing something live there is no time for whimsy. It either works or ...
  A: 1."When you are losing people" means that they are losing interest in what you are doing. For ...
Sentences2/21/2009
  Q: 1. We have 20 free tickets for/to the National Championship tennis match. Does the use of “for” or ...
  A: 1. You can use either "to" or "for" in the sentence; both are heard as commonly as the other. ...
Sentence development2/21/2009
  Q: I am working on a project on the topic of suicide for a life-span development course I am taking and ...
  A: I'd be glad to help you. Let me ask a question and if you can get back to me, we can go on. Do you ...
grammar2/21/2009
  Q: I have another question about the grammar with the following sentence. "Education, with its cycles ...
  A: The sentence, a question, is actually satirical. The main sentence is, "What would civilization be ...
serious piece of work2/20/2009
  Q: It was helpful. There is one sentence in the passage below I do not understand. On our previous ...
  A: Wow, this is a tough one since I haven't seen the previous work. To me it means this: In order to ...
Sentences2/20/2009
  Q: 1. a. I worked out all the details. What is another word/phrase for "work out" in the above ...
  A: 1. "I finalized all of the details" or "I planned all of the necessary details." "Practiced" ...
sentence2/20/2009
  Q: I have a question with the below sentence. "Any scientific study requires that there be no ...
  A: "There be no" means "there cannot be". So the sentence might be rewritten to say, "Any scientific ...
leave behind2/19/2009
  Q: how are you? The words below seem to be simple, but somehow I don't get them. "I think what this ...
  A: I'm fine thank you. 1. A university professor is supposed to be an educated, learned person, but ...
Comparatives2/17/2009
  Q: What are correct forms for these adjectives - fit and fair? fitter? more fit? fairer? more fair?
  A: The following is the usual rule for comparatives: Adjectives of one syllable normally end in -er ...
Mrs. or Miss?2/16/2009
  Q: If I wanted to use a married lady's first and last name what would be the proper title? Example: ...
  A: Yes, if you want to use her husband's name, you would address her as Mrs. John Doe. However, ...
i need help on 5-paragraph essay-To Kill a Mocking bird2/16/2009
  Q: Old/Young People “Things do not change; we change.”- Henry David Thoreau. In To Kill a Mocking Bird ...
  A: Below is your essay with corrections in capital letters; when writing a paper, try to keep "you" out ...
play with2/15/2009
  Q: Welcome back! Tolerance was the subject we were playing with. Freedom of expression was a real ...
  A: "Subject we were playing with" means that in their music, they were trying to work the issue of ...
pointers needed2/15/2009
  Q: would you be able to look over my introductory and concluding paragraphs and give me any pointers as ...
  A: Here are your paragraphs with suggestions in capital letters: _________________________ Intro: Sex ...
3 grammar questions: both, verb object agreement/and vs. or/ would vs. would have2/15/2009
  Q: Anne, I have three separate questions for you. 1. If John and Mike each bought one gift for Sarah, ...
  A: 1. You would say, "Both John and Mike bought a gift for Sarah." The other sentence sounds like ...
following the device2/6/2009
  Q: Someone says that this singer's "greatest gift is his imagination but it's also sometimes his worst ...
  A: "Following the device from beginning to end" is tying "himself to one idea". So in this sense his ...
with or without2/4/2009
  Q: Which is correct, a) or b)? а) More information on [something] is available in _the_ section ...
  A: Anna, The rule in English is that most nouns take a definite or indefinite article before them if ...
give/stand over/.....2/2/2009
  Q: how are you? One of the members of the band speaks about their latest album which, according to the ...
  A: Yes, "something had to give" means that something had to happen, one way or another. It could be ...
2 questions2/1/2009
  Q: I have 2 questions. It's a simple sentence, but I'm not sure I understand what the author might ...
  A: Luke, I believe what this means is that the songs are autobiographical,they tell the story of the ...
Grammar1/31/2009
  Q: 1. We renew a contract, book or a membership. What else can we renew? 2. 2. I wonder how to say ...
  A: We can renew a lease, renew a friendship, renew a magazine subscription. What you have said is ...
Move House1/30/2009
  Q: How is the term "move house" used in sentences? I'm very familiar with it when it's used without a ...
  A: Sorry I couldn't have been more help about "move house", but I think you are correct in assuming it ...
follow-up1/29/2009
  Q: I asked last time: There is one guy who talks about fame and he says: I remember that whole era as ...
  A: I believe he is talking about how people react to fame in general. No one is prepared for fame and ...
"Move House"1/29/2009
  Q: How is the term "move house" used in sentences? I'm very familiar with it when it's used without a ...
  A: I have never seen the phrase "move house" in just this way. Do you have some sentences with ...
fame1/27/2009
  Q: There is one guy who talks about fame and he says: I remember that whole era as being a little ...
  A: What the speaker means is that, when a person is famous, he often has to play the game of the ...
2 questions1/24/2009
  Q: ) I've been reading a book for some time and there is always something I do not understand then I ...
  A: 1. In this instance, I believe that "makes them stronger" means that the repressing of these ...
Would it be possible to check my English essay?1/23/2009
  Q: This is my first entry to Allexperts and if it does not bother you, I would like you to check and ...
  A: I'll be glad to help you in any way that I can. Below is your essay and I have made comments or ...
which1/22/2009
  Q: Is this correct?: "Which of the fish are cleaned?" * Pronoun "which" takes plural verb because of ...
  A: You would say, "Which of the fish is cleaned" if you mean one fish. Since fish is also plural, if ...
revolution1/22/2009
  Q: There is a certain guy who talks about the revolution in Nicaragua. He says: The ideas of the ...
  A: In the first sentence, the speaker says that the revolution in Nicaragua was formed from the seeds ...
write off1/21/2009
  Q: I'll quote some passage below because I'm not sure if I interpret something in the correct way. "It ...
  A: You are right; he didn't want to literally come to America but he wanted to get the feel of America ...
Hypen1/21/2009
  Q: Please explain when the hyphen is used in "problem solving." Thanks in advance!
  A: There are so many rules and exceptions to hyphenation. "Problem solving" can be hyphenated and it ...
worth voting for1/20/2009
  Q: Welcome back. I'm just wondering what the phrase "worth voting for" in the passage below refers to? ...
  A: I'm not sure in the context of this paragraph what "worth voting for" means. If it is tied to a ...
Difference between To Marry/Get Married/Is Married1/12/2009
  Q: What is the difference between these verbs? I've heard one is active while the other is passive. ...
  A: In the active voice, the subject of the sentence is the person doing the action. For example, "Lori ...
Modals1/12/2009
  Q: 1. I have no work today. I (will, might, could, can, should, must) clean my room. Do all the modal ...
  A: 1. Yes, all of the modals work in this sentence. "I might clean my room today," and "I can clean ...
sentences1/11/2009
  Q: Modal verb choices: 1. He could be friendly, but he is usually unfriendly. Can I say, "..can be ...
  A: 1. Yes you may say, "can be friendly". These two phrases are used interchangeably today; there is ...
need help for correction1/10/2009
  Q: I am a bit confused in using plural form, specially in the following sentence. Which is correct or ...
  A: The correct sentence would be, "Voltage feasibililty constraints guarantee viable bus voltage ...
test markets for a new idea...../up close1/9/2009
  Q: I have a problem with the comprehension of these two sentences below. Can you explain to me the ...
  A: 1. In the United States, before a product is produced for mass use or general consumption, it is ...
Has had1/9/2009
  Q: Could you explain to me about "has had". I have one example: British Embassy has had its first ...
  A: Actually this sentence is not correct grammatically. The "has had" would make sense if the word ...
Which Verb Form is Correct?1/8/2009
  Q: I'm teaching Enlish in Korea. Sometimes I have difficulty explaining the grammar and hope to get ...
  A: I'm happy to help you with your class. The present progressive tense is used to show a continuing ...
dates1/6/2009
  Q: I'm not sure what it means when somebody says: We DID OUR FIRST DATES in Germany, which in those ...
  A: I see what you mean. "Date" can also mean a set time for activities. So "We did our first dates" ...
"last Week"1/6/2009
  Q: I am not sure if it is correct to put "last week" in this place in the sentence: we were contacted ...
  A: Andrea, The placement depends on emphasis: do you want to emphasize that it was LAST WEEK when ...
dates1/6/2009
  Q: I'm not sure what it means when somebody says: We DID OUR FIRST DATES in Germany, which in those ...
  A: To "date" a person meets to start to meet a person socially, usually in the romantic sense. I'm not ...
be delighted1/4/2009
  Q: I have difficulty choosing the tense of the sentence. Would you help me to make the sentence? The ...
  A: I will be glad to help you. In English, we look at tenses to determine what happened first and what ...
change sentence1/4/2009
  Q: What does it mean to change a question into a statement of fact? Here is the sentence...(The main ...
  A: This sentence has a sentence included and the instruction is to eliminate that. My suggestion would ...
Comma in this case?1/3/2009
  Q: Sometimes when i grammar check on micro works it will offer to change a sentence with *(,) and then* ...
  A: It's important to remember that a comma is used to avoid confusion. If a sentence makes perfect ...
having gone to.....1/2/2009
  Q: Best wishes in the new year!!! We were world famous in Dublin. JUST HAVING GONE TO LONDON WAS ...
  A: and a Happy New Year to you too. First, to explain "having a record deal in people's eyes" means ...
GERUND VS PRESENT PARTICIPLE12/31/2008
  Q: Tell me an easy way to diferentiate between GERUND and PRESENT PARTICIPLE. I know PRESENT ...
  A: A gerund, as you stated, acts as a noun. Therefore, if I said, "WALKING is good for your health", ...
home in/script12/29/2008
  Q: I'm not sure I interpret the below words correctly. "We would be doing the song then Jack would ...
  A: "Let's go somewhere else" means that they would get to a different part of the music and "home in". ...
grammar12/27/2008
  Q: 1. She looks attractive to me. She looks appealing to me. Do both sentences above have the same ...
  A: 1. In the sense that you are using the words "attractive" and "appealing", they do not have the ...
contrary12/21/2008
  Q: Is this correct?: "Contrary to popular opinion, chicken soup doesn't cure colds." * Is "contrary" ...
  A: In this sentence, "contrary to" is a preposition. If you look at the entry from Merriam-Webster ...
confidence/12/20/2008
  Q: I have problems with the comprehension of certain phrases in the sentences below. Will you clarify ...
  A: I'll try to rephrase, but this sentence is very abstract in meaning. Here is my understanding of the ...
Sentences12/19/2008
  Q: 1. Although rather light and thin, the sphenoid bone nonetheless binds these other bones firmly ...
  A: 1. You could say, " Although rather light and thin, the sphenoid bone still binds these other bones ...
confidence/12/19/2008
  Q: I have problems with the comprehension of certain phrases in the sentences below. Will you clarify ...
  A: 1. The phrase means that even though a person has self-confidence, he or she needs more than that ...
Grammar12/19/2008
  Q: 1. The flatworm is a soft bodied, parasitic animal that can detrimental to the human body. Can I ...
  A: 1. Yes, both revised sentences are correct. 2. Yes, this sentence is correct also. 3. Yes, ...
occasion with "a" "the" or no article12/18/2008
  Q: Ms. Benington: The following three sentences are taken from NYT articles. They use the same ...
  A: Tak, The usages you present all have subtle differences. In the first sentence, "we just never ...
Once again and Once more12/16/2008
  Q: What's the different between once again and once more? and give me examples please? Thanks
  A: There is very little difference between the two phrases. For example, your piano teacher might say, ...
questions12/15/2008
  Q: When Edge opened the throttle, there was quite a roar. Adam was there and he really LOOKED THE PART; ...
  A: To "look the part" means that a person assumes a role, as if in a movie. So let's say that Adam is ...
gerund/adjective12/13/2008
  Q: i would like to know about a structure which seems confusing to me. i am not sure whether it is an ...
  A: It's good to hear from you again. In the he phrase "loving father", "loving" is an adjective. It ...
not yet and have yet12/12/2008
  Q: Anne, I'd like to ask about this: ...as appointment with John is not confirm yet so i put Jake on ...
  A: Both sentences seem identical to me except that "john" is not capitalized in the second. Actually, ...
had suffered12/8/2008
  Q: I remember waking up and my mother wasn’t around. I was told, “Something has happened with your ...
  A: As I read the paragraph, one discovers that the mother collapsed ( it should be past tense) as a ...
sentence12/8/2008
  Q: Welcome back! At the age of eight, I was sent to a boarding school over on the other side of Dublin ...
  A: The text should read: At the age of eight, I was sent to a boarding school over on the other side ...
grammer11/23/2008
  Q: One question on an ESL test required students to chose between the following two options: 1. She is ...
  A: This is a tough distinction. The first sentence presumes that the emails have not been completed ...
2 questions11/22/2008
  Q: Could you tell me what is the difference in meaning between these two sentences: 1. If they hadn't ...
  A: We would say, "If they hadn't taken credit, they wouldn't have built any houses." What this means ...
grammar11/22/2008
  Q: 1. Kate was said. She had just quarreled with her mom. 2. Kate is said. She has just quarreled with ...
  A: Yes, we would say, "We had been waiting for them for two hours." This is the correct phrase. By ...
grammar11/21/2008
  Q: 1. Kate was said. She had just quarreled with her mom. 2. Kate is said. She has just quarreled with ...
  A: Luke, I believe you mean "sad". 1.We would say, "Kate was sad. She had just quarreled with her ...
Use of the pharse seeing as that11/21/2008
  Q: I have noticed this in sentences with nothing to do with physically viewing something. What is the ...
  A: "Seeing as that" is an idiom or a slang term for the word "since". So to rewrite the sentence more ...
past perfect11/20/2008
  Q: Is it a good sentence: If I had had this book before we could have used it, but I hadn't had it so ...
  A: Luke, The preferred sentence would be,"If I had had this book before, we could have used it, but I ...
use of word "unless"11/20/2008
  Q: Is my grammar correct on the use of word unless? Does my sentence make sense because I'm not ...
  A: Is "full-time project-in-charge" a person? Your use of "unless" is correct, I would however change ...
editing help11/19/2008
  Q: can you look over my concluding paragrapgh. Since it is a personal respond i was told i can use I. ...
  A: Here is the proofed text. I hope I have retained your meaning. If you disagree with some of my ...
Which is more appropriate11/19/2008
  Q: Is there a difference between the two phrases "will likely" and "are likely"? Thank you, Bob
  A: Let me give you two examples: "My friends will likely call on my birthday." "My friends are likely ...
Dollar vs. $11/18/2008
  Q: I am a court reporter and having a debate with my attorney boyfriend (who believes he is much ...
  A: I went to "Fortune" magazine to see how they write about millions and the following is a quote about ...
if .....11/17/2008
  Q: Is it OK to say: I wondered if he would feel offended if I did it. Thanks ANSWER: Hello Luke, ...
  A: Your sentence is a conditional based on the future. So you need to say, "I wondered if he would ...
short article-proofread?11/15/2008
  Q: I was wondering if you would please proofread this for me. Office Romance Love at work is common ...
  A: Here is the proofed text: -------------------------------- Office Romance Love at work is common ...
meaning11/13/2008
  Q: I'm not sure I get the meaning of this sentence. Anciently, diamonds were worn as polished stones. ...
  A: No, what this means is that diamonds were cut and polished just as we do today. Diamonds, when they ...
Introduction11/13/2008
  Q: can you take a look at my introduction and give me any pointers as to what i can do to make it sound ...
  A: I'm sorry to be so late at sending this; I thought it had gone through already yesterday. When ...
Use of she/her11/13/2008
  Q: My wife will often say, "Is that she/he?" and I feel that it is correct to say, "Is that her/him?" ...
  A: Grammatically the correct form to use is, "Is that she or he." The involved technical reason states ...
meaning11/12/2008
  Q: "Obsidian is effective when carried or used in protective rituals. One involves surrounding a white ...
  A: I believe the cultural beliefs of these people state that the obsidian arrowheads have special ...
straight through11/12/2008
  Q: I have a question about this sentence: Part two (of this book) can be read straight through or used ...
  A: I'm not sure if "stones" is used in the metaphorical sense or not, but here is a paraphrase: Part ...
Proper usage11/12/2008
  Q: punches punch's punches'
  A: All three have possible uses: 1. "punches" is plural: "The boxer hit his opponent with many ...
continuous tense11/6/2008
  Q: Can I say that these sentences have been written in the present continous tense just because they ...
  A: The grammatical structure of the present continuous tense is: subject + auxiliary verb + main verb ...
tenses11/5/2008
  Q: "The population of the world is increasing very fast." --- how about "increases very fast" Do I ...
  A: When we say "increasing" we mean that the process has not stopped and is continuing. When we say ...
neologisms in advertising11/5/2008
  Q: I'm Russian and I really need your help! Well, I want to clear it out what I'm looking for - words ...
  A: Some examples are beer ads with the word "lite" to convey a less filling, fewer calories image: Bud ...
5 questions11/1/2008
  Q: I have some questions regarding the usage of perfect tenses. 1. He’d never flown before. ---Can I ...
  A: Sorry to have taken so long to answer, but I was called out of town suddenly. 1. Yes, both are ...
Sentences10/23/2008
  Q: 1. Ex1: While global warming is a worrisome trend in today’s climate patterns, El Nino is another ...
  A: 1. You may use "Even though" or "though" as substitutes. Ex.2. "Documented" means actual ...
english writing and grammar10/23/2008
  Q: 1.Which is correct grammatically? We don't know where we draw our sustenance from. Or We don't know ...
  A: Anne here, actually. 1. Both sentences are grammatically correct since we can draw sustenance ...
Metaphors (Writer vs. Painter)10/23/2008
  Q: The main idea of my essay is to get the point across of how a writer builds character using words. ...
  A: Your idea of comparing an artist to a writer is excellent. What you might do to build on what you ...
Subject-Object agreement10/22/2008
  Q: Something that has been puzzling me for a long time is whether subject-object agreements should ...
  A: With indefinite pronouns, we use singular nouns. I know it sounds strange in your sentence, but you ...
is/ are10/22/2008
  Q: Which sentence is correct and Why?: 1) There is a doctor and a dentist in the room. OR 2) There are ...
  A: #1 is the preferred choice since there is only ONE doctor and there is only ONE dentist in the room. ...
habits of consumers10/22/2008
  Q: This memo needs to be regarding the shopping habits of different types of consumers for example, ...
  A: Below is the edited version of your letter. I have used capital letters in places where changes were ...
conditionals10/21/2008
  Q: 1. If I knew I would tell you about it 2. If I had known I would have told you about it 3. If I had ...
  A: Yes, the first two are correct but the last is not. The first presumes that the knowledge is ...
Grammar10/20/2008
  Q: Is this correct?: "The more we wait, the better the chances of getting inside." * Websters ...
  A: Yes, this is an interesting use of "more". We usually think of it as an adjective or an adverb, but ...
since/from10/18/2008
  Q: From Monday I work in another school. Since Monday I work in another school. --- is it possible to ...
  A: Luke, We don't usually use the phrase "From Monday" alone. We might say, "I worked every day from ...
usage of colon following the words "such as" or "including"10/17/2008
  Q: Is it correct to put a colon after the word "including" or "such as" when writing a list? Ex. I ...
  A: You would not use a colon after the words "including" and "such as". Here is a rule that might ...
question10/17/2008
  Q: a) Jim apologised for forgetting to call him. b) Jim apologised that he forgot to call him. 2. a) ...
  A: Actually, you can use "b" in number 1, but it is not phrased that way in regular speech. As for ...
Essay/Speech on Looking for Alibrandi, Raw, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn10/12/2008
  Q: I'm in year 10 and I was wondering if you could help me fix up my speech for english. I'd really ...
  A: I have made some comments in capital letters below to your speech. I've also corrected some ...
a work of fiction10/11/2008
  Q: Here is the quote. What have you done? She scolded, a sense of confused distress rising in her. An ...
  A: Yes, the "she" should be in the lower case since it follows a direct quotation. It should read, ...
order of pronouns10/11/2008
  Q: Is it just style or is there a strict rule in English that personal pronouns must be presented last ...
  A: The pronoun "I" and "me" are always last because of politeness. For example, Mary and I went to the ...
subjunctive10/10/2008
  Q: Are these correct for the subjunctive mood?: * "I would have preferred to have known about the pie ...
  A: I have printed below some explanations of the subjunctive mood to give you a clearer idea of this ...
She vs Her10/1/2008
  Q: I read your previous response to Thomas: You would use, "her" in the sentence. The reason is that ...
  A: Your sentence would be "Smith told me (that) she and her husband, John, sent Jones $2000...." In ...
formal thesis10/1/2008
  Q: I am in an AP English class and my teacher assigned a research paper on a novel of our choice. I ...
  A: OK, first to style. As you know most college professors ask their students to write in the MLA ...
which/who9/29/2008
  Q: how are you? Which is correct: 1. Who of them is/are.. 2. Which of them is/are... I guess if I ...
  A: Technically, the sentence should be "Who of them is..." but today you will most often hear people ...
grammar9/29/2008
  Q: A friend used the sentence: "Being close to the grocery store, we walk rather than drive the car." ...
  A: Actually you are looking at a form of the verb "to be" used in the subjunctive mood, which is not ...
speeding/taking,takes9/28/2008
  Q: Are these sentences alright? 1. They are speeding round like crazy. 2. Who of you is taking/takes ...
  A: You would say, "Who of you takes private lessons in English?" The word "you" always uses an "s" on ...
proper use of pronoun in a sentence9/27/2008
  Q: The sentence reads, "He thought to himself, '...then there is a quote about what he is thinking...'" ...
  A: You are correct. The word should be "himself" since it is a reflexive pronoun. What this means is ...
Re: Compound possessives and such.9/26/2008
  Q: I'm helping people from other countries learn English, online. It's mentally challenging, to say the ...
  A: I'm glad to help. You would not put an apostrophe in "hers" because it is a possessive pronoun and ...
formal thesis9/25/2008
  Q: I am in an AP English class and my teacher assigned a research paper on a novel of our choice. I ...
  A: I'll be glad to help you. First I need to know what kind of research paper you must write. Are you ...
correct/incorrect sentences9/24/2008
  Q: Will you please have a look at what I've written below and tell me if this sounds OK? Off we go: ...
  A: 1. I would put a comma, not a semi-colon, between "it" and "when". 2. What about resources such ...
meaning of phrases9/24/2008
  Q: What do the phrases within the quotes mean ?Also,correct the statements if they are grammatically ...
  A: 1. "Has to put up with" means that the step-mother's treatment toward her step-daughter is probably ...
meaning of phrase9/23/2008
  Q: What does the [phrase within the quotes mean in the given statement? In the situation which their ...
  A: The term "in locus standi" is defined this way: "Locus Standi" Latin for place to stand, in law, ...
helping verbs9/23/2008
  Q: 7th grade grammar question. In the following sentence: Sacagawea of the Shoshone people helped open ...
  A: Actually the sentence has compound verbs---"cover" and "help". The sentence, without the modifiers, ...
grammar9/22/2008
  Q: According to Webster's grammar book, this is a noun clause: "How you manage on your income is a ...
  A: "How" is acting as a noun here. Your main clause is "How is a puzzle to me." The subordinate ...
Assistance9/21/2008
  Q: do we say your assistance is appreciated OR your assistant is appreciated? do we say we need your ...
  A: We would say, "Your assistance is appreciated." By this we mean that we are thankful for the help ...
Another SAT Grammar Help9/21/2008
  Q: Hey Anne, sorry for bothering you with another SAT Grammar Question. If he [had begun] earlier, he ...
  A: Emily, I agree that "extremely" is redundant ( unnecessary) since complex means very complicated. ...
Grammar9/21/2008
  Q: I'm currently studying for the SAT writing section and i can up with a question I don't know ...
  A: The reason "like many other" is incorrect is that it describes "dilemma" which doesn't make sense. ...
in,at/yet/on,in9/18/2008
  Q: I know I can say: He teaches in a primary school. However if I wanted to use "at" would it be OK to ...
  A: Good Morning, Luke, You may say, "He teaches in a primary school," or "He teaches at a primary ...
4 questions9/17/2008
  Q: how are you? 1. I collect X as a hobby OR I am collecting X as a hobby. ---which tense is better to ...
  A: Luke, 1. Really, the two sentences mean the same thing. When you say, "I am collecting X as a ...
ENGLISH 13019/16/2008
  Q: You have the opportunity to choose three influential people to be your professors during your first ...
  A: This could be an interesting essay to write and I will be glad to help you. First of all, a thesis ...
helping verbs9/14/2008
  Q: Which is correct? My father's name was Bill. He has passed but I am using the analogy of the name ...
  A: I'm not sure if your question concerns the verb "is" or "was" in the sentence. Yes, your father's ...
Did I offend this guy?!9/12/2008
  Q: Chuck is a salesman. I wrote the sentence below, and he felt insulted. He thought I said that ...
  A: I believe you meant that with only the two of them, it is not easy to find clients. I can see that ...
grammar/writing9/11/2008
  Q: 1. It's difficult for someone who has never spoken English to start talking in this language. ---is ...
  A: Good Morning, Luke, 1. Yes, this is correct. 2. Yes, it is correct, but the word is spelled ...
infinitive gerund9/11/2008
  Q: i would like to learn about the word "know". is it an infinitive or gerund? and is there any ...
  A: "Know" is a verb. The infinitive form is "to know" and the gerund is "knowing" when used as a noun. ...
vocab./grammar9/9/2008
  Q: 1. Someone once told me: I'll fix you up tomorrow (what does it mean: fix you up. I think he wanted ...
  A: "Fix you up" has several meanings. Our most common usage is to find someone a date. For example, ...
4 questions9/9/2008
  Q: Welcome back Anne! I have a few questions. 1. a) By that time tomorrow I will have left. b) By ...
  A: 1. In part "b" of your example, you do not need the "been". Since you have two future actions, you ...
Summary Essay9/3/2008
  Q: I am having to write a summary essay on my career choice. It consists of an introduction, 3 ...
  A: The most important element in an introduction is to grab the attention of your reader. We have ...
compound subjects9/3/2008
  Q: What is the difference between a 'compound subject' and a 'compound simple subject'? I've never ...
  A: A compound simple subject is very basic: Mary and John went to the store. Mary and John are the ...
sentences-mistakes9/2/2008
  Q: I have another group of sentences that I'd like to ask you to have a look at and tell me if ...
  A: 1. Yes, you may use "route". 2. No, we would not say "off" to X street. We might say, "When you ...
part of a sentence9/2/2008
  Q: I do not understand the second part of this sentence: The amygdala processes the primitive emotions ...
  A: Since the "amygdala" is part of the "limbic" system in the brain, the writer infers that the ...
some questions9/2/2008
  Q: Would you change anything in the sentences below? 1. So far I'm planning on going to America and ...
  A: 1. Correct 2. "Another time" means a time that is not specific. It could be yesterday or five ...
on the same page = on the same plane ???9/1/2008
  Q: Benington, Hello again, and how are you today? Summertime in Tokyo is awful weather-wise - too hot ...
  A: Summer here in Ohio is hot and we have had very little rain. The farmers really need it for the ...
meaning/for9/1/2008
  Q: What is the difference in meaning when I say: Do you learn any other languages except English AND ...
  A: Luke, We would say in most cases: "Are you learning any other languages except English." What ...
a few sentences9/1/2008
  Q: Please have a look at the sentences below and tell me if they are OK 1. When you spend $400, you ...
  A: 1. Yes, you may say, "You will be left..." 2. Yes, the preferred statement would be "even if they ...
literal translation8/31/2008
  Q: Fig 4 summarizes how the counter-narrative can be seen as embracing a series of ever widening ...
  A: Since I don't know exactly what topic your are studying--history, science, economics etc. I will ...
Usage of "second-guess" (criticize/question)8/29/2008
  Q: Benington, Long time no see. How have you been doing? I made three sentences using the verb ...
  A: Tak, I'm fine and doing well. Thank you for asking. As for your sentences, here are some ...
"than" as a preposition8/27/2008
  Q: My middle school aged son had an assignment where he had to identify prepositional phrases in a ...
  A: "Than" is not a preposition. It is a conjunction and used for comparisons of adjectives and ...
Compare and contrast essay8/25/2008
  Q: Benington, They say i have too many follow up question so i have to post another question. About the ...
  A: I have copied your paragraph below and have made some corrections or suggestions: “The Santa Ana, ...
thesis for compare and contrast essay8/24/2008
  Q: My summer homework is compare and contrast Didison's essay "Los Angeles notebook" and Chandler's ...
  A: I have copied your paragraph below and have made a few suggestions: In both “Los Angeles Notebook” ...
thesis for compare and contrast essay8/23/2008
  Q: My summer homework is compare and contrast Didison's essay "Los Angeles notebook" and Chandler's ...
  A: Below I have copied your introduction and I made a few grammatical changes which I have capitalized. ...
thesis for compare and contrast essay8/23/2008
  Q: My summer homework is compare and contrast Didison's essay "Los Angeles notebook" and Chandler's ...
  A: I will try to help you. First, I must ask some questions. Were you given the thematic connection ...
questions8/22/2008
  Q: Do they both mean the same: Don't get fresh with me! AND Don't take that done with me! (do you use ...
  A: I think you mean, "Don't get fresh with me!" and "Don't take that tone with me!" The first one is ...
english grammar8/21/2008
  Q: what's the difference between the simple present tense and the progressive present tense?
  A: The simple present tense is used when an action occurs but you don't know if it is finished; it ...
subjunctive linking verb?8/20/2008
  Q: Is this correct for subjunctive use with a linking verb?: "If he dreams, he wastes time."
  A: This sentence is not in the subjunctive since it sounds like a FACT. To be subjunctive, it must be ...
Capitalization8/19/2008
  Q: (1) He is a white man and she is a black woman. Or, he is a White man and she is a Black woman. ...
  A: Most mainstream print magazines and papers use AP ( Associated Press) Stylebook. This book and ...
Grammar8/18/2008
  Q: Is this sentence grammatically correct or is there some punctuation needed? "Three things you can ...
  A: Here is the adapted text: "Three things you can do to protect your ears from hearing loss: keep ...
Grammar ques8/16/2008
  Q: which sent. is grammatically correct. I am referring to the Olympics/ The gymnastics WAS good. OR ...
  A: If you were speaking of the entire competition of gymnastics over several days until the finish, you ...
Order of Degrees and Licenses8/16/2008
  Q: My question is: How do you list degrees, licenses after a name. Specifically I'm looking for how to ...
  A: Here is an answer from a web site that specializes in writing: You list accomplishments from least ...
already/just/yet8/16/2008
  Q: I have a question about already, just and yet 1. I’ve JUST seen a really great film. (what if I ...
  A: All of your sentences are correct. Using "just" means that the activity has recently occurred. ...
past tense8/15/2008
  Q: i'm confuse with the usage of did.like if i want to say "what did i tell you?" or "what did i told ...
  A: In English, when we use "did" with a verb we call that the emphatic tense. So if you are speaking ...
for8/13/2008
  Q: I was thinking about this sentence: What do you need to know the English language for? I wondered ...
  A: Actually, the rule says not to end a sentence with a preposition, "for". So the sentence could be ...
brought/did8/12/2008
  Q: I know that the correct question should be: Who brought you up? Why not: Who did bring you up? ...
  A: The phrase "did bring" is what we call the emphatic form of the verb. When you say, "Who did bring ...
in a race...8/4/2008
  Q: i would like to ask about the usage of arrangement ,in a race for instance...i would like to make ...
  A: Your custom is very interesting. Do you live in Turkey? Yes, we make similar comments to our ...
in a race...8/4/2008
  Q: i would like to ask about the usage of arrangement ,in a race for instance...i would like to make ...
  A: We would not say "You are the first in beauty." However, we would say, "You are the most ...
Another Essay...Please Check and edit if you can8/3/2008
  Q: Nauman Amin English 1302 07/08/08 Devdas: Grief-Stricken Lover Devdas is a main character in the ...
  A: I am glad to help you. Here is the edited version of your essay: Devdas, a main character in the ...
2 sentences8/3/2008
  Q: Is it OK to write: I suppose you know what my question will be like now? Also: I take a bike and ...
  A: You might say, "I suppose you know what my next question will be." This would be the preferred way ...
since....8/2/2008
  Q: how are you? Is it a good sentence: It's been the whole week since we live here together and I ...
  A: I'm fine and hope you are too. The sentence would be more correct if you say, "It's been a whole ...
Multiple Questions in a Sentence7/23/2008
  Q: Despite much research, I cannot find an authoritative answer to the following punctuation question. ...
  A: You are correct. Here is a sample from an online writing source at a university. This example, ...
Colon7/22/2008
  Q: My answer is: No. I'm told by many grammar experts that this is correct. They say the colon means ...
  A: In general, the colon does not follow a verb. You are correct in saying that what follows a colon ...
some questions7/20/2008
  Q: "Building lots and the prices of houses and flats have been shooting up like crazy for some time." ...
  A: Yes, your original sentence is correct. It tells the reader that the prices are going up and they ...
some questions7/18/2008
  Q: 1. I have to find out if I will become a good teacher. --I think it's OK to put "will" after "if" ...
  A: 1. Yes, you are correct. And yes, you are also correct to put the "will" after "if." 2. When ...
grammar questions7/17/2008
  Q: "Is "much less" a conjunctive adverb in the following sentence? "We can barely dance, much less ...
  A: No, "much less" is not a conjunctive adverb. Here is the definition: A conjunctive adverb connects ...
Pronoun usage7/17/2008
  Q: Often when writing, I have a hard time determining when to use the word(s), "I" or "me", "he" or ...
  A: The rule is that the words "I", "he", "she", "they" are subjects of the sentence. "Him," "her", ...
myself/dot,period/has,have7/15/2008
  Q: In the internet addresses we say: "dot" or "period"? What's the difference? One of the teachers ...
  A: In everyday English, there is no difference between "dot" and "period" when speaking of internet ...
intransitive verb7/15/2008
  Q: My dictionary says the word "run" is intransitive in this sentence but I think it's transitive. ...
  A: This sentence has a direct object: What did Dave run? He ran a marathon, he ran a thing. His goal ...
intransitive verb7/14/2008
  Q: My dictionary says the word "run" is intransitive in this sentence but I think it's transitive. ...
  A: To be a trainsitive verb, the direct object must be the receiver of the action. In the stated ...
grammar7/14/2008
  Q: Ann, You've been very helpful. Do you know why "French-styled" and "three-fourth" would be ...
  A: Pat, Yes, anything that is more than one requires the "s". The last sentence could be written: ...
one word on a line7/14/2008
  Q: I am putting together a book and seemed to remember of of those "golden rules" of never having just ...
  A: This is probably a rule that has been written for aesthetic quality rather than for grammatical or ...
Grammatical question7/14/2008
  Q: One of the surgeons featured on the ABC special called "Hopkins" is the focus of a portion of the ...
  A: Paul, You are absolutely correct. The sentence SHOULD read" Shah's research interests include new ...
grammar7/12/2008
  Q: Ann, You've been very helpful. Do you know why "French-styled" and "three-fourth" would be ...
  A: I wanted to comment further on the word "not". I was not as clear as I should have been. There is ...
questions7/12/2008
  Q: how are things? Is there any difference between "fast" and "quick"? For example: She works fast OR ...
  A: In your example, both "fast" and "quickly" are correct, and in this sentence they both mean the same ...
question7/11/2008
  Q: Do you know what a concept question is? What would be the concept question to such a sentence: I ...
  A: There is a methodology in teaching where a theme, concept or unit is presented to learners and they ...
writing a research paper?7/11/2008
  Q: I have a Humanities research paper based around the questions Why is Studying the humanitites so ...
  A: How are you coming with your paper on the humanities? Do you need more help? Anne
Sorry, please read this one instead7/10/2008
  Q: Must the phrase "a thousand-year-long tradition" only be interpreted to mean that the tradition is ...
  A: Yes, you are correct. I now see where you are coming from. The phrase, "a thousand-year-long ...
Usage of7/10/2008
  Q: Must the phrase "a thousand-year-long tradition" only be interpreted to mean that the tradition is ...
  A: Mike, Yes, I agree with your thoughts. For example, someone might say, "I haven't seen him in ten ...
grammar/vocabulary7/8/2008
  Q: Is it OK to say: If you manage to land yourself many teaching hours a week then you will have a good ...
  A: I would say, "If you manage to land a position that offers many teaching hours a week, then you will ...
a quck 'dashes' question7/8/2008
  Q: What does this mean in this sentence to put dashes in here? Moderate drinkers have little trouble ...
  A: The dashes are just a quick break from the general thought of the sentence and are used here as ...
being/milk7/6/2008
  Q: Is it a good sentence: "I love the irony of a system called "US VISIT" being a significant reason ...
  A: I must admit that I don't understand the sentence as it is written: "I love the irony of a system ...
Direct object7/6/2008
  Q: My grammar book says that "bank" is not a direct object in this sentence: "The bank was robbed." ...
  A: This sentence is written in passive voice. This means that the action in the sentence was not done ...
when/while7/6/2008
  Q: How's your Sunday going? 1. If you find some time please answer my question. would it also be ...
  A: We would say, "If you find some time, please answer my question." The "will" is not used nor is it ...
"She" vs. "her"7/4/2008
  Q: I am in need of some assistance in crafting a sentence. I am trying to recall the rules on pronoun ...
  A: You would use, "her" in the sentence. The reason is that the phrase "I am" is eliminated in the ...
Grammar7/2/2008
  Q: I have some grammar questions: * Also, he went skiing. (Is "also" modifying a verb?) * He went ...
  A: Part II of response: Modality So what about modality, then? A basic distinction in our use of ...
Grammar7/2/2008
  Q: I have some grammar questions: * Also, he went skiing. (Is "also" modifying a verb?) * He went ...
  A: Good Morning, Pat, 1. "Also" modifies "went skiing" in both sentences. 2. One need not repeat ...
will7/1/2008
  Q: Is everything alright with this sentence: Some of his past difficulties may have dissipated ...
  A: Luke, The "will have" means that at some future point, the "self-attachments" will have ended. ...
say/tell/speak6/29/2008
  Q: Can I use all of them? I haven't heard a single word you were saying I haven't heard a single word ...
  A: We use the verb "to tell" when we are relating a story or giving information. The verbs "to speak" ...
since....have....6/29/2008
  Q: I know that these two sentences below are correct 1.Since we've joined the EU many people have ...
  A: Both sentences are correct and there is virtually no difference in meaning. "Since we have ...
maybee you can help?6/27/2008
  Q: I'm looking at a definition of control as being- "restraining or regulating influence" I have ...
  A: Keith, Yes, if you can put a word into a complete sentence and then analyze its parts of speech, ...
maybee you can help?6/27/2008
  Q: I'm looking at a definition of control as being- "restraining or regulating influence" I have ...
  A: As I look at your note, it seems that your main sentence is , "The definition of control is a ...
song/no6/23/2008
  Q: These two lines are from the song: c'mon c'mon no one can see you try c'mon c'mon no one can see ...
  A: When we say, "I'll take that as a 'no'". We mean to be emphatic. It is the same as saying, "I'll ...
song/no6/23/2008
  Q: These two lines are from the song: c'mon c'mon no one can see you try c'mon c'mon no one can see ...
  A: Since I don't have all of the song lyrics in front of me, I'll tell you what the two lines could ...
no/not/other/another6/21/2008
  Q: 1. ....but actually it no longer existed. Why can't I write: ....but actually it NOT longer ...
  A: "No longer" is a duration of time. You may use the phrase "not longer" but it has several different ...
no/not6/20/2008
  Q: I'm sometimes confused when to use "no" and when "not". There are no cars/There are not cars (I ...
  A: "No" can be used as an adjective. For example, "No cars left the garage before 6 a.m." Or, "No ...
grammar6/18/2008
  Q: how are you? Can I use the phrase "at the time" OR "at that time" (I guess they mean the same) to ...
  A: No, in American English we never say "homeworks". "Homework" is a collective noun that covers all ...
grammar6/18/2008
  Q: how are you? Can I use the phrase "at the time" OR "at that time" (I guess they mean the same) to ...
  A: You should say, "At the time, I was so busy with work that I could not enjoy the theater." This ...
Capitalization6/17/2008
  Q: Can you tell me if the following need to be capitalized when writing a paper-Middle School, High ...
  A: If you are referring to a specific school, you must capitalize. For example, Jones Middle School, ...
effective acadcemic writing6/17/2008
  Q: I need to know the differences between a thesis statement, a topic sentence, an explanation, an ...
  A: A thesis statement explains what the writer plans to prove in his paper. The thesis statement ...
wish.....6/16/2008
  Q: I know it's OK to say: I wish they lose (and I guess it means that I want them to lose in the ...
  A: It is not common to say, "I wish they lose." The common phrase is to say, "I hope they lose." ...
tense/was/were6/14/2008
  Q: Welcome back. I have two questions. 1.She taught both in a primary school and a high school, but ...
  A: Luke, 1. We would not say it as you wrote, "She had known before she went to teach there that she ...
tense/was/were6/14/2008
  Q: Welcome back. I have two questions. 1.She taught both in a primary school and a high school, but ...
  A: It is good to be back. I was at a writing conference. To answer your second question first, the ...
Grammar, usage and meaning6/1/2008
  Q: In competition,a backstroker must touch the finish pad before the shoulders pass the vertical toward ...
  A: As I read this, to "qualify" a swimmer must touch the pad BEFORE the shoulders pass the vertical. ...
turned/always....5/31/2008
  Q: how are you? 1. I know that I can say: He turned fifty in April. Can I also say: He turned a year ...
  A: "Was never taught" means that, in the past, the teaching of this method did not occur. The ...
capitalization after letter salutation5/31/2008
  Q: I learned long ago that, after a letter salutation ending in comma, the next word (the start of the ...
  A: Since your phrase is a sentence of direct address, you would not capitalize the "how". If, ...
turned/always....5/31/2008
  Q: how are you? 1. I know that I can say: He turned fifty in April. Can I also say: He turned a year ...
  A: Luke, 1. We would say, "He turned a year old in June." 2. Both are grammatically correct, but I ...
go home and go to my house?5/30/2008
  Q: My question is why do we say go home, but we say go "to" my house or go "to" the park? Why is there ...
  A: That's a good question, and really, there is no grammatical answer. This is just an idiom that has ...
proper use of I and me5/30/2008
  Q: I have been everywhere, and cannot find verbiage for the proper use of I and me. For example: ...
  A: No, you must use "to Debbie and me." "To" is a preposition and all objects of the preposition ...
subjunctive form5/29/2008
  Q: I know that the two sentences below are the examples of using (or: "of the usage" which is correct?) ...
  A: The following English grammar rules explain why "s"is not used for the subjunctive mood. The ...
have been/always5/27/2008
  Q: Is it incorrect to use "always" with the present perfect continuous? If so, why? 1.I've been always ...
  A: The sentence is correct. You may say, "I have always been renting rooms." Or, "I have always ...
this/it5/25/2008
  Q: I always thought that "this" and "it" are interchangeable, but I've read somewhere that when you're ...
  A: In your first sentence, by using "this" you are referring to something very specific. For example, ...
all bets are off5/25/2008
  Q: Benington, It appears that the phrase "all bets are off" is commonly used in the U.S. I tried to ...
  A: Actually, all of your examples are correct. "All bets are off" means that any previous agreement or ...
this/it5/25/2008
  Q: I always thought that "this" and "it" are interchangeable, but I've read somewhere that when you're ...
  A: These two words are actually different parts of speech. So I'm not sure what type of sentence you ...
grammar5/24/2008
  Q: I have read could and would are the past tense of can and will.however, when we speak to the third ...
  A: Since the question asked was a hypothetical one, not one that was based on real events, you should ...
Myself, yourself, ste5/23/2008
  Q: I heard "This was imposed on us - myself and the director." I thouht myself had to be introduced by ...
  A: You are correct, "myself" is used incorrectly. The correct way to say the sentence should be, "This ...
grammar5/23/2008
  Q: I have read could and would are the past tense of can and will.however, when we speak to the third ...
  A: "Can" and "could" mean do you have the ability to do so. "Will" and "would" are the polite ways of ...
You can see / You see5/23/2008
  Q: How are you? I can't understand when I have to use the verb See with can and without can. I'm ...
  A: When you say, "I always can see her" you mean that you can see the person whenever you want. She ...
proper usage of the word advice & advise5/22/2008
  Q: Is it correct to say, 'please advice' or 'please advise'
  A: The word "advice" is a noun and the word "advise" is a verb. So in your sentence you would use the ...
apples5/21/2008
  Q: There's an old saying: How about them apples? I'd like to ask you if it refers to a single person ...
  A: Yes, it is basically the same, but the phrase "What do you think about that?" is not as forceful as ...
apples5/21/2008
  Q: There's an old saying: How about them apples? I'd like to ask you if it refers to a single person ...
  A: The phrase "How about them apples" is grammatically incorrect, but for a reason. Obviously, it ...
How do I properly use the word "which" vs. "that"5/20/2008
  Q: Farjon (1990) reports palisade parenchyma that/which is lacking in the fossil leaves described here. ...
  A: Here is the explanation from a writer's link. I have included the more extensive link at the bottom ...
Grammar and Writing5/20/2008
  Q: What is the role of grammar in essay writing at the university level?
  A: The role of grammar in essay writing at the university level is extremely important. One expects ...
exaggeration poems5/15/2008
  Q: hi what is the definition of an exaggeration poem and an imagery poem
  A: Exaggeration means claiming something is greater than it really is. For example, if you said "my cat ...
Agreement5/14/2008
  Q: Into the phone booth _______eight of us. a. crowds or b. crowd Efforts to improve the soil ...
  A: Since "eight" is a collective noun, it will use the plural verb --B--crowd. "Into the phone booth ...
use of commas with quotes5/13/2008
  Q: Can you please tell me which comma placement is correct and why? Thank you! a. While not all of ...
  A: The answer should be "A". The following is a statement from the Purdue University Writing Lab about ...
Large and big5/13/2008
  Q: I would like to know what is the difference between the two words LARGE and BIG? Where can we use ...
  A: There is not much different between the two words for meaning, but they are used differently some ...
Grammar & syntax.5/10/2008
  Q: is it correct in english language? Thanks. Massgraves' ideology. When bolshevism from surreal story ...
  A: I think some words are missing from your sentence. Is this what you intended to say? "When ...
Italicizing question5/7/2008
  Q: Novel titles are italicized, but what about the name of a book series? i.e. I recently read The ...
  A: Mark, I believe you are asking how to correctly indicate Return of the Rings as part of a trilogy. ...
Italicizing question5/6/2008
  Q: Novel titles are italicized, but what about the name of a book series? i.e. I recently read The ...
  A: Yes, you are correct saying that all titles are either underlined or italicized. Since The Return ...
Two questions--spelling and grammar5/5/2008
  Q: 1. Canceling or cancelling. It was my understanding that it had two "L's"? Is there a rule??? 2. ...
  A: The word is spelled "canceling even though the following rule usually applies: Rule: Double the l ...
orientation4/23/2008
  Q: Once again I have a question relating to the book I'm reading about the magic crystals. there's the ...
  A: What gem represents the Wicca? It is not unusual to have several symbols that represents parts of ...
Conclusion vs Afterward4/23/2008
  Q: I'm writing a senior thesis and would like to better understand the difference between a conclusion ...
  A: To understand an "afterward" let us go first to an "introduction". As you know, many books, ...
Blood specimen or blood sample?4/22/2008
  Q: I met a question on an exam, and this is it: This type of apparatus can produce more than 40000 ...
  A: I have researched the two words, "sample" and "specimen". It seems that they are synonymous. Here ...
bartering4/22/2008
  Q: The book is about magic stones, but there is a section which says about bartering for stones. I ...
  A: The information about magic in the paragraph helps somewhat. This is my understanding of the ...
What is the difference in meaning?4/11/2008
  Q: What is the difference in meaning? - We are coming so you won't have / don't have to work so hard. - ...
  A: Jesus, "We are coming so you won't have to work so hard" means that in the FUTURE your work will be ...
please help!4/11/2008
  Q: Im having trouble writing my essay in which i have to pick a topic from my personal knowledge and ...
  A: I will be glad to help you with your paper. Do you have something started that I can look at and ...
i failed my test so i was wondering if you can show me the right answers?4/11/2008
  Q: 1.which of the following words is the best close-up word? A:plant C:food B:zucchini D:vegetable ...
  A: I will try to explain to you. #1--zucchini is the close up word because it is the most descriptive ...
Proper English Use of "Earlier of"4/10/2008
  Q: Can you explain the proper use of the phrase "earlier of"? I was under the impression that if you ...
  A: David, I'm not sure I completely understand your question, but I will write a sentence and you can ...
Put this bit over here (, )so it fits (or it will fit?) into that hole.4/9/2008
  Q: Do these sentences have the same meaning with comma and without comma? Which is a purpose clause and ...
  A: The sentences that you wrote mean the same but you do not need the comma. Remember that commas are ...
me/I4/8/2008
  Q: The person I have to defend myself the most from is me. Is it also possible to put " I " instead of ...
  A: The correct way to say your sentence grammatically is " The person from whom I have to defend ...
Where to delete4/2/2008
  Q: Ms. Benington: I am currently working on a translation project, and I have the following question. ...
  A: I have eliminated the repetition by using the word "another". I hope this makes sense for you. ...
grammar4/1/2008
  Q: I wanted to compare: 1. She looks nice (not: nicely) 2. She sleeps calmly. In the first example ...
  A: Yes, to say she looks "nice" means that the adjective describes the person. To say she looks ...
pad your receipt or pad the amount of/on your receipt3/31/2008
  Q: Benington, It's always a pleasure to send you a question or two. I have two questions today. Q1: I ...
  A: 1. The word "pad" means that the driver of the cab will add an amount to the check so that the ...
When was that?/When has been that/When has that been3/31/2008
  Q: I have read this sentence in a grammar book: - 'Penny has been climbing before.' -'Oh, has she? When ...
  A: The sentence, "Penny has been climbing before," indicates that Penny is still in the process of ...
Countable or Uncountable?3/31/2008
  Q: I can't understand why Acting is an uncountable noun and Performance is countable or why Panic is ...
  A: Performance is a countable noun because we can actually list the performances. For example, John ...
You are stuck with me vs. I am stuck with you3/30/2008
  Q: Benington, How have you been? I wonder if there is any slight difference between the following two ...
  A: Tak, The phrase, "you are stuck with me" can have many connotations. For example, if you are at a ...
turn over a new leaf3/19/2008
  Q: Ms. Benington, I found the phrase "turn over a new leaf" while reading a book, and I think this ...
  A: All three sentences are perfectly correct. You have done a good job in conveying the meaning of ...
grammer3/19/2008
  Q: The following sentence is from Franz Boas Race's book: Language and Culture. The western plains of ...
  A: Sorry I did not get your note earlier. I had some communications errors. As for the last part, ...
subject pronouns3/18/2008
  Q: i am an english teacher.I am not a native speaker though.so when one of my students asked me a ...
  A: Pointer, As for the order of pronouns, there is only one rule, and that is for politeness. The ...
feel small3/16/2008
  Q: Benington, I have created the following sentences using "feel small", and wonder if you could kindly ...
  A: Of course, the Random House Webster's Dictionary is correct in its definition, but for practical ...
feel small3/15/2008
  Q: Benington, I have created the following sentences using "feel small", and wonder if you could kindly ...
  A: Tak, a) In front of everyone in class, Mrs. Ferguson accused me of cheating ON the history exam. ...
defination of what this quote means3/14/2008
  Q: As a rule of thumb,it's best to look before you leap. As they say,an ounce of prevention is worth a ...
  A: The answer would be "C", a rule that usually works. "A rule of thumb" is an idiom that goes goes ...
use of prepositions3/13/2008
  Q: I am proofreading a test, and this is one of the sentences: She preferred to talk to her pet instead ...
  A: One doesn't need the extra "to" because both "her pet" and "people" are objects of the first ...
2 questions3/12/2008
  Q: I have two grammar questions this time, but both of them are about the usage of the past perfect. ...
  A: A. As I was running to the other side of the park, an arrow hit me. b. The telephone rang for my ...
stay clear of ...3/11/2008
  Q: Benington, I really hope your parents had a great time during their stay in Japan. Today, I would ...
  A: Yes, my parents loved their stay in Japan. Thank you for asking. a. This sentence is correct but I ...
How to cram my ideas into one sentence3/4/2008
  Q: Ms. Benington, How are you today? I visited Ohio, which by the way sounds like Japanese "good ...
  A: My parents visited Japan quite a few years ago, and my father was always so pleased to be able to ...
inversion3/4/2008
  Q: 1. Could you tell me what IS wrong with this? MAYBE I SHOULD WRITE: Could you tell me what wrong is ...
  A: Luke, We would always say, "What is wrong with it?" In the sentence you mentioned, we would ...
inversion3/4/2008
  Q: 1. Could you tell me what IS wrong with this? MAYBE I SHOULD WRITE: Could you tell me what wrong is ...
  A: 1. You must say, "What is wrong with this?" Not, "What wrong is with this? We would not say that ...
it is one's law to do ...3/3/2008
  Q: Hell again, Ms. Benington, How are you doing? It's getting warmer day by day here in Tokyo, Japan. I ...
  A: I wish it were spring here in Ohio. It is still very cold and snowy. To answer your question, "law" ...
inversion3/2/2008
  Q: 1. Could you tell me what IS wrong with this? MAYBE I SHOULD WRITE: Could you tell me what wrong is ...
  A: Luke, I'm not sure I'm understanding your question, but here goes. The correct sentence is "What ...
Pronouns "that" or "it"3/1/2008
  Q: Ms. Benington, I would like to ask you about the usage of "that" and "it" in the following two ...
  A: A. Yes, you would use "that" in the first sentence because "that" refers to the event of seeing ...
I can't understand when I have to use week, Sunday, year with THE or without it.2/29/2008
  Q: I can't understand when I have to use week, Sunday, year with THE or without it.Next week, year, ...
  A: We would say, "I will see you next week." We would not say, "I will see you the next week." ...
if or when2/29/2008
  Q: Benington, I have been struggling to improve my English mostly by reading English novels (mysteries, ...
  A: These two sentences, "....if it will suit his purpose" and ....when it will suit his purpose" mean ...
relative clauses2/28/2008
  Q: Do you think these two are restrictive relative clauses? 1. Barbara works for a company that makes ...
  A: LUKE, Yes, these are restrictive relative clauses. You could write the sentences as you suggested, ...
Form of Writing Style...!!2/28/2008
  Q: However, sometimes I wonder what kind of form of language one should/would use in this fast paced ...
  A: The form of language that you use in your speaking and writing of English depends on the ...
grammar2/27/2008
  Q: Is the sentence "The shop is around that place"grammatically correct?
  A: Yes, the sentence is grammatically correct, but I'm not sure what you mean by "around that place." ...
Which is te correct form?2/11/2008
  Q: Which is te correct form? (THE?) next Sunday, (THE?) next month, (THE?) next week, (THE?) next ...
  A: I will write some sentences using the above phrases and hope this is what you are looking for. If ...
URGENT!PAST PERFECT2/8/2008
  Q: This's myIn the story " A TALE OF 2 CITIES" I read: "Antoine street was one of the poorest parts of ...
  A: "Antoine street was one of the poorest parts of Paris.There,the children had the faces of old ...
grammar questions2/7/2008
  Q: There is the sentence: This is my 6th year since I started boxing. I would like to ask if it's ...
  A: Luke, I looked at the website you gave, and technically one does not say, "I'm doing boxing ...
grammar questions2/7/2008
  Q: There is the sentence: This is my 6th year since I started boxing. I would like to ask if it's ...
  A: You may say, "This is the sixth year since I started boxing." You may also say, "This is the sixth ...
grammar2/6/2008
  Q: I thought I might ask you the same question as a new one, instead of a follow-up question. You ...
  A: Yes, you could say, "We were having a chat as we were waiting." Since I don't have your original ...
how to re-write this sentence better2/5/2008
  Q: I am an engineering student and writing a research paper. I would like to ask you to check the ...
  A: Not being an engineer, I hope I can help you. The grammar is correct in the sentences. I'm ...
descriptive and prescriptive gammar2/3/2008
  Q: what is the main difference about decriptive and precriptive grammar. in other words how you are ...
  A: A PRESCRIPTIVE GRAMMAR lays out rules about the structure of a language. It deals with what grammar ...
Grammar2/2/2008
  Q: I've been asked to explain why it is correct to say both 'who is to blame?" and "who is to be ...
  A: Well, one difference is time. If someone walks into the room and sees a broken dish on the floor, ...
I need Eassy about2/2/2008
  Q: I need Eassy about "Relate an exciting experience from which you developed a particular talent or ...
  A: I'm not sure what type of help you need. If you are not sure where to begin, the best place is to ...
lyrics1/30/2008
  Q: I have a different question this time. It's about lyrics. There is something I don't understand and ...
  A: I'll try to answer, according to what I see. "Change your passion for glory" can be a positive ...
awkward wording1/30/2008
  Q: Here is the sentence: "If you think it is confusing to read about why Iceland is green and Greenland ...
  A: I agree, that the sentence, as written, is awkward. In everyday speech, "about why" has become the ...
Dulce et Decorum est1/25/2008
  Q: while writting my essay for Dulce et Decorum est I came across a small problem. Does 'like a devil's ...
  A: I used to teach this poem quite often. Here are the lines: If in some smothering dreams you too ...
usage of disparity1/25/2008
  Q: which of these sentences is grammatically correct: Quantum jump in benefits leading to wide ...
  A: Neither one of these phrases is a sentence. You need a verb. You could say, "A quantum jump in ...
Good writing skills starts were?1/23/2008
  Q: I want to have a good writing skills and I took all the required class. However, I feel hesitant ...
  A: It is commendable that you want to improve your communication skills. And since you say that ...
good writing skills starts were?1/23/2008
  Q: I want to have a good writing skills and I took all the required class. However, I feel hesitant ...
  A: What kind of writing do you want to do? Do you have classes that require essays? Do you need to ...
essay conclusions1/18/2008
  Q: I have been given an assignment to write a conclusion as if I had written an essay entitled "On ...
  A: Here is the corrected version with punctuation: Whether or not human cloning will ever be ...
Should I add the article "a"?1/18/2008
  Q: I have a sentence. "These problems are normal during a diabetic episode/episodes." I ask because ...
  A: The use of "a" depends on whether you use episode in the singular or the plural. For example, ...
essay conclusions1/18/2008
  Q: I have been given an assignment to write a conclusion as if I had written an essay entitled "On ...
  A: I prefer your first conclusion because you mention precise sides in the debate: scientists and ...
Please check if got grammer mistakes12/18/2007
  Q: 18.12.2007 Hello Gentleman, Please let me know if the below drafted letter has go any grammer ...
  A: The correct text is as follows: ------------------------------------------------- Hello Gentleman, ...
Would have for future?12/18/2007
  Q: Can you tell me the difference between these two sentences: 1) The trip next week would be fun if ...
  A: 1--"The trip next week would be fun if he went" indicates that the trip has not yet taken place and ...
Use of "had"12/16/2007
  Q: Is it more appropriate to say: "I realized that left my umbrella in the train only when I got ...
  A: It is correct to say, "I realized that I had left my umbrella in the train only when I got home." ...
is vs. are12/14/2007
  Q: Anne: Can you please help me, here? I understand the basic differences between using 'is' vs. 'are,' ...
  A: I'm glad to help. The correct sentence is "I hope one of them is correct." The subject of the ...
Help for my boyfriend- a slow writer12/14/2007
  Q: I'm one of those students who procrastinates and ends up spending the night before a deadline ...
  A: Not knowing your boyfriend, this is a rather tough question. I have had students over the years who ...
Word Usage12/13/2007
  Q: In the following statement "The critics censured/censored the new movie because of its social ...
  A: This is a tough choice because, as I mentioned before, one can only censure a person. In our ...
Word Usage12/12/2007
  Q: In the following statement "The critics censured/censored the new movie because of its social ...
  A: In correct English grammar a person is censured. For example, a senator might be censured by his ...
possessive genitive case11/11/2007
  Q: Benington, Would you please tell me what the difference is between "possessive case" and ...
  A: Actually, today, the possessive case and genitive case are virtually the same. Here is a note taken ...
Proper Punctuation for list11/8/2007
  Q: Greetings, I thank you in advance for your help. Is there a difference between the following two ...
  A: The first statement seems to be the correct one since you are using a string of modifiers to ...
Former titles11/6/2007
  Q: I have noticed that for the last couple of years, former politicians or political appointees are ...
  A: Charles, This is the answer from the Editor of the Columbus Dispatch: Dear Anne, I check our ...
unless10/31/2007
  Q: Are these sentences correct? 1. You'd be happier unless you had such high expectations. 2. What ...
  A: Luke, As I look at the two sentences you presented, I'd like to explain why they do not make sense ...
unless10/30/2007
  Q: Are these sentences correct? 1. You'd be happier unless you had such high expectations. 2. What ...
  A: 1--I think you mean to say, "You'd be happier if you did not have such high expectations. " ...
Grammar10/30/2007
  Q: The following sentence-"Who did teachyou how to dance?" Can you please explain why this is ...
  A: The correct past tense of "teach" is "taught", so your question should read, "Who taught you how to ...
grammar question10/30/2007
  Q: First of all, thank you in advance for answering my question; I'm teaching esl in a french secondary ...
  A: Let's look at the two phrases without the apostrophe first. "Hadn't" is the short form for "Had ...
Use "of" or "with"10/29/2007
  Q: I can't seem to find which is grammatically correct. Please see example below: John Smith *with* ...
  A: Jennifer, The shades of meaning in these two sentences is remote. Both have the same meaning. I ...
want doing?10/29/2007
  Q: I saw a sentence on a book (by Richard R. Spears). It goes like this: Mary's sending out very few ...
  A: In the sentence that you quoted, the phrase, "She doesn't want...." means that she does not CHOOSE ...
English - Conditional Sentences10/27/2007
  Q: I want to ask you if is it possible in conditional sentences type one use in the main clause the ...
  A: Yes, you can use the sentence as you wrote it"If you are interested in indigenous people, you are ...
Thank you Note10/23/2007
  Q: We had a baby shower and I want to send a Thank you card to the people who participated. Can you ...
  A: If you want to write a short note, you might say: "Thank you so much for coming to my baby shower. ...
wrong part.10/19/2007
  Q: 1.Mt Washington IS OVER(A) one mile HEIGHT(B) and HAS MANY(C) picturesque waterfalls on ITS(D) ...
  A: The sentence should read, Critics point out that Windows 95 is not as efficient as the previous ...
personal narrative10/19/2007
  Q: I am in an AP English class and I am wondering how do I write a personal narrative? My English ...
  A: Brianna, It seems like you have an interesting story to tell. Now try to outline your narrative. ...
RE: PAST AND FUTURE TENSE10/19/2007
  Q: Anne, some times I get confused on when to use meant or mean. I know meant is past tense and mean is ...
  A: Yes, "meant" does connote past tense: "I meant to study more last night, but I fell asleep early." ...
punctuation10/18/2007
  Q: Ms. Benington, I wish to enclose a slang word and phrase within quotes. Here it is. "'Cause life ...
  A: Your phrase is correct, but it isn't a complete sentence. If you are including it as part of a ...
personal narrative10/18/2007
  Q: I am in an AP English class and I am wondering how do I write a personal narrative? My English ...
  A: Okay, two most important elements of a personal narrative for a college application are key: 1) ...
wrong part.10/18/2007
  Q: 1.Mt Washington IS OVER(A) one mile HEIGHT(B) and HAS MANY(C) picturesque waterfalls on ITS(D) ...
  A: The first sentence should read: 1. Mt. Washington is over one mile HIGH and has many picturesque ...
Grammar10/18/2007
  Q: I teach ESL to adults. I have a student from Japan. She thought it was correct to say, "I could ...
  A: I know that teaching ESL is difficult. I teach two Russian men and the nuances of our language give ...
personal narrative10/17/2007
  Q: I am in an AP English class and I am wondering how do I write a personal narrative? My English ...
  A: I've attached a few websites that might help. If you need specific guidance, please get back to me: ...
prepositional phrases and punctuation related to it10/15/2007
  Q: How do I know the what punctuation rules are used with the prep phrases? Like when do I use a comma ...
  A: Amanda, If a prepositional phrase begins a sentence, there is a comma after it. For example: ...
Reliability10/14/2007
  Q: What is the rule for using "ability" as in reliability. How do you teach a middle school student to ...
  A: "Reliability" means that something can be depended on. For example, you might say, " I have to be ...
interrogative pronoun10/11/2007
  Q: Can you please help me identify the part of speech for the word "what" in the following sentence: ...
  A: Yes, an interrogative pronoun can be used as a direct object. For example, if you insert a noun as ...
object of preposition10/10/2007
  Q: Is it possible to ever have an adverb be the object of a preposition? I have always thought that ...
  A: Rich, Every preposition must have either a noun or a pronoun as its object. Adverbs cannot be ...
essay10/9/2007
  Q: I am writing a persuasive essay in AP English and its one of our choice and I chose to do mine on ...
  A: I would prefer that you say "requesting the coach they prefer for the coming year." Also, "...my ...
essay10/8/2007
  Q: I am writing a persuasive essay in AP English and its one of our choice and I chose to do mine on ...
  A: Well, I can appreciate your desire to do well on the AP essay since I used to teach AP and wanted my ...
tense/periods etc.10/7/2007
  Q: 1."In fact, the reactions of both groups were so intense that the experiment which was to have ...
  A: The shades of meaning are interesting. In the first sentence, you would probably use commas around ...
Farm Letter needs grammer checked9/25/2007
  Q: I hope that you will give us your farm because. It will be a good place to raise a family and escape ...
  A: For the most part your letter is fine. A few corrections and you can send it on its way. In the ...
2 questions9/19/2007
  Q: Which is better: "customer's traffic" or "customer traffic" and why? I don't have any context to ...
  A: The correct phrase would be "customer traffic". "Customer" is an adjective that describes what kind ...
Capitalization Question9/18/2007
  Q: Are the names of centuries--i.e., "Twentieth Century," capped? Is it permissible in formal writing ...
  A: Here is the rule according to the style booklets: HISTORICAL PERIODS Capitalize names of ...
compare/contrast essay9/16/2007
  Q: I'm writing a compare and contrast essay for school. I am using the point-by-point method of ...
  A: Okay, so your first supporting paragraph is a compare and contrast of the sound color of a cello and ...
compare/contrast essay9/16/2007
  Q: I'm writing a compare and contrast essay for school. I am using the point-by-point method of ...
  A: Let me talk about your introduction first. Yes, the first sentence should be an attention-getter. ...
lyrics9/15/2007
  Q: Anne! There's the song: Coldplay - Beautiful World Lyrics print version Bones are sinking like ...
  A: I think the phrase "bones sinking like stones" refers to us getting older. Our bodies shrink since ...
Answers to Grammar!9/15/2007
  Q: When is the correct way to say " May or Might" in a sentence? Also, what is the correct way to say ...
  A: The uses of "may" or "might" are often interchangeable. But there are shades of meaning involved. ...
daily language8/25/2007
  Q: in my native language we have a very useful phrase that i could not find the similar in English. ...
  A: If a person is asked a question in English, then answers the question, he might follow his answer by ...
must8/23/2007
  Q: there is an exam tomorrow at 10.00 am so you .........be at school before that time. a. have to ...
  A: Both sentences are correct with either "have to" or "must", however, the word "must" conveys a sense ...
start doing sth vs. start to do8/22/2007
  Q: Sometimes people say: I start to do sth, sometimes people say I start doing sth. I would be more the ...
  A: I believe I misunderstood your question in the first email. Now I understand your confusion and ...
grammar8/22/2007
  Q: I know it's all right to write "the walls of the city" or "city walls" I'm curious why is it ...
  A: When one says "city walls", the word "city" becomes an adjective describing what kind of walls. ...
start doing sth vs. start to do8/21/2007
  Q: Sometimes people say: I start to do sth, sometimes people say I start doing sth. I would be more the ...
  A: People rarely say "I start to do ..." something. For example we don't say, " I start to mow the ...
vocabulary8/21/2007
  Q: Can grammar rules also be termed "predictions"?For instance can the rule"A sentence having 3 verbs ...
  A: I never thought about a rule being a prediction, but in this sense, it could be called that. For ...
question8/20/2007
  Q: Anne! Could you have a look at the passages below and point out the mistakes if any? How do they ...
  A: Luke, paragraph one is very confusing. First, you do not need a colon after "to". Next, you need ...

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