Most English majors (me included) realize that language is fluid and changes with time and context. Most of us also know there’s a huge difference between spoken and written English. We’re a lot less formal when we speak, especially if we’re talking to a friend, family member or peer group. People who tend to be grammar nazis feel they have to pull rank on others or prove they’re smarter (when they’re not). My mother-in-law would constantly correct my grammar at family gatherings, even though by her own admission she barely passed high school. For the sake of her grandkids, I kept my mouth shut, except to occasionally point out that correcting people’s grammar while they’re talking is rude.
I don’t mind colloquial use of common words. It’s people who misuse uncommon words that get me. If they’re going to bother using an uncommon word in place of the usual one, you’d think they’d make sure they’re using it correctly.
The Life I Draw Upon about 10 years ago
May I? _
ekw555 about 10 years ago
may I use the can?
Rauderi about 10 years ago
If he’s “sick” of people misusing words, maybe he needs an aspirin for his fever. =P
Coyoty Premium Member about 10 years ago
He needs a life.
Thehag about 10 years ago
No need to ask. If he needs to go, he needs to go.
ChessPirate about 10 years ago
Beardo: 1, Loud-mouth grammar policeman: 0
ehtaniguchi about 10 years ago
Most English majors (me included) realize that language is fluid and changes with time and context. Most of us also know there’s a huge difference between spoken and written English. We’re a lot less formal when we speak, especially if we’re talking to a friend, family member or peer group. People who tend to be grammar nazis feel they have to pull rank on others or prove they’re smarter (when they’re not). My mother-in-law would constantly correct my grammar at family gatherings, even though by her own admission she barely passed high school. For the sake of her grandkids, I kept my mouth shut, except to occasionally point out that correcting people’s grammar while they’re talking is rude.
ewalnut about 10 years ago
I don’t mind colloquial use of common words. It’s people who misuse uncommon words that get me. If they’re going to bother using an uncommon word in place of the usual one, you’d think they’d make sure they’re using it correctly.
pcolli about 10 years ago
Is an English major anything like a drum major?
reedkomicks Premium Member about 10 years ago
This guy is more of an English minor.
Mary McNeil Premium Member about 10 years ago
You MAY if you CAN!