Introduction
COMMON
ERRORS
IN
ENGLISH
A Compilation by Ged Martin
Any errors in this Compilation are solely the result of poor typing
Common Errors in English is based on Good English for Canadian Studies (1997), which I compiled for use of students in Canadian Studies courses at the
Many students had been led to believe that accuracy in the use of English was both unnecessary and too difficult. Neither fantasy is true. This compilation is intended to help, and not to intimidate or overawe. The same errors occur time and again in student essays, and many of them can easily be overcome, either by taking note of the origins of the word, or even through simple memory tricks.
Some students claim to have a “spelling problem”, which they regard as a quasi-medical diagnosis that excuses them from bothering to use a dictionary. We all have encounter words that we find difficult to spell, and I accept that some people encounter more problems than others. Common Errors in English offers tips to remember correct spelling, and arranges “problem” words into groups to help identify them. A “spelling problem” is a challenge, not an excuse. It is certainly not the same thing as dyslexia, which is a condition that can be tested, and for which most institutions such as universities offer programmes of support. It is an insult to people who have to contend with dyslexia to claim it as an excuse for a lazy attitude to accuracy.
No doubt English spelling would be easier if it were phonetic. Unfortunately, as a world language, English words are pronounced in many different ways. Even Scottish, English and Irish ideas of phonetic spelling would soon develop into a dozen separate languages. It is also true to say that English is a vigorous and living language which changes and develops. However, it is inadvisable for individuals, and especially university students, to initiate such changes themselves.
Spelling checks on word processors can identify some errors, but they do not protect against misuse of words. There is no substitute for buying and using a dictionary.
Some of the comments which follow relate to correct pronunciation. This is not a plea for “posh” speaking. I grew up in the Essex suburbs of
Every commentary on English usage should come with the equivalent of a health warning or, at the very least, a profession of humility. I may not be “right” in everything included here, although I try where possible to indicate why certain forms are recommended. There remain many matters for individual judgement (or, indeed, individual judgment in the case of those words which still, after hundreds of years, do not seem to have a fixed spelling). My defence for making the original attempt back in 1997 lay in my growing disillusionment with British higher education. I shared the opinion of many of my colleagues that too many students were being short-changed by the failure of the school system to equip them to use their own language accurately and effectively. I tried to do something about the problem, and Common Errors in English is the result.
Publication on the Internet may bring this compilation to the attention of readers overseas. It should be stressed that it relates largely to English as written and spoken in
Common Errors in English is arranged in three sections. PROBLEMS (pp. 5-32) deals with spelling and usage. PAIRS (including some TRIOS) (pp. 33-38) deals with words which are commonly confused. Both these sections are arranged alphabetically. The final section, beginning on page 39, offers simple advice on THE APOSTROPHE.
Further
For an informative and often entertaining discussion of awkward points and disputed issues, see:
R.W. Burchfield, ed.,
THE NEW FOWLER'S MODERN ENGLISH USAGE
(3rd edition, Oxford University Press, 1996).
THE ECONOMIST STYLE GUIDE
(Profile Books, 2003, frequently revised)