The McGraw-Hill Handbook of English Grammar and Usage [antikvár]

Introduction. . You should say what you mean," the March Hare went on. "J do," Alice hastily replied; "at leastat least I mean what I saythat's the same thing, you know.""Not the same thing a hit!" said the Hatter. "You might just as well say that 'I see what I eaf is the same thing as 7 eat what I see!'"Alice in WonderlandThe March Hare sounds as though he might have been an English teacher! Whatever his profession, he is clearly aware that precision in one's language choices can be a serious matter.Such precision is especially important in written communication. Writing, unlike conversation, allows you to refine your language before sharing it, and readers are well aware you have this "prep time" for writing. When we show our writing to others, there is an expectation of correctness and precision far beyond the expectations of day-to-day conversations. Mistakes that are routinely accepted in casual conversation are glaringly apparent in writingor in formal speaking situations.English teachers and March Hares are not the only ones who expect our language choices to be made carefully and correctly. Indeed, many busi-nesspeople are far more demanding than English teachers when it comes to following grammar rules and preferences. Errors and poor decisions in regard to language can annoy readers of all sorts, can confuse people about what you are trying to say, and can lead your audience to question your credibility or professionalism.Thus, we offer this book to help people improve their ability to follow the rules, conventions, and preferences associated with formal English.