Mike the Elder wrote:
> Other useful hints about English grammar:

All three of these aren't correct.

> A preposition is the wrong thing to end a sentence with.

The actual rule is to not end a sentence with a proposition if the 
sentence means the same thing without the preposition.

Good -> "This is not something I'll put up with."

Bad -> "Where is the library at?"

> Remember to not split infinitives.

This is another of those rules that some random pundit made up that got 
distorted over time. Don't split infinitives with a clause unrelated to 
the verb. Sticking an adverb in there is fine, actually.

> ..... And NEVER begin sentences with conjunctions!

"Pick up the keys. And pick up the newspaper. But don't pick up the cat."

Never have a dependent conjunctive clause stand alone as if it is a 
sentence, is the actual rule.

Good -> "But for Steve's quick thinking, we'd all be in jail."

Bad -> "But not the busdriver."

Unfortunately, there are enough people who only memorize the form of the 
rule without actually understanding the reasons or proper application 
that many people will think you don't know English when you actually 
know it better than they do.

-- 
Darren New / San Diego, CA, USA (PST)
  Helpful housekeeping hints:
   Check your feather pillows for holes
    before putting them in the washing machine.

Post a reply to this message