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Problems With Connectors (5): Cause Connectors.

(They decided to stay at home [because] [the weather] [was bad])

- They decided to stay at home
- (because): because
- (S): the weather
- (V): was bad

[OR]

(They decided to stay at home [because of] [the weather])

- They decided to stay at home
- (because of): because of
- (Noun): the weather

Avoid using (because of) before a subject and verb. Avoid using (because) before a noun which is not followed by a verb.

Examples:

Incorrect: Classes will be canceled tomorrow (because) a national holiday.
Correct: Classes will be canceled tomorrow (because) (it is) a national holiday.

[OR]

Correct: Classes will be canceled tomorrow (because of) (a national holiday).

Incorrect: She was absent (because of) (her cold was) worse.
Correct: She was absent (because) (her cold was) worse.

[OR]

Correct: She was absent (because of) (her cold).

Incorrect: John's Family is very happy (because) (his being awarded) a scholarship.
Correct: John's Family is very happy (because) (he has been awarded) a scholarship.

[OR]

Correct: John's Family is very happy (because of) (his being awarded) a scholarship.

Incorrect: She didn't buy it (because of) (the price was) too high.
Correct: She didn't buy it (because) (the price was) too high.

[OR]

Correct: She didn't buy it (because of) (the price).

Incorrect: It was difficult to see the road clearly (because) (the rain).
Correct: It was difficult to see the road clearly (because) (it was raining).

[OR]

Correct: It was difficult to see the road clearly (because of) (the rain).

Problems With Connectors (4): Condition and unexpected result.

([Desptite] [his denial], we knew that he was guilty)

- (Despite): Despite
- (noun,): his denial,
- we knew that he was guilty

[OR]

([In spite of] [his denial,] we knew that he was guilty)

- (In spite of): In spite of
- (noun,): his denial,
- we knew that he was guilty

Avoid using (of) with (despite). Avoid omitting (of) after (in spite).

Examples:

Incorrect: (Despite of) the light rain, the baseball game was not canceled.
Correct: (Despite) the light rain, the baseball game was not canceled.

[OR]

Correct: (In spite of) the light rain, the baseball game was not canceled.

Incorrect: Dick and Sarah are still planning to get married (despite of) their disagreement.
Correct: Dick and Sarah are still planning to get married (despite) their disagreement.

[OR]

Correct: Dick and Sarah are still planning to get married (in spite of) their disagreement.

Incorrect: (In spite) the interruption, she was still able to finish her assignment before class.
Correct: (Despite) the interruption, she was still able to finish her assignment before class.

[OR]

Correct: (In spite of) the interruption, she was still able to finish her assignment before class.

Incorrect: (Despite of) their quarrel, they are very good friends.
Correct: (Despite) their quarrel, they are very good friends.

[OR]

Correct: (In spite of) their quarrel, they are very good friends.

Incorrect: (In spite) the delay, they arrived on time.
Correct: (Despite) the delay, they arrived on time.

[OR]

Correct: (In spite of) the delay, they arrived on time.

Problems With Connectors (3): Purpose Connectiors.

([He] [is studying] hard [so that] [he] [can pass] his exams)

- (S): He
- (V): is studying
- hard
- (so that): so that
- (S): he
- (V): can pass
- his exams

Remember that although the form (so) is commonly used instead of (so that) in spoken English, it is not considered correct in written English.

Avoid using (so) instead of (so that) as a purpose connector in written English.

Examples:

Incorrect: He borrowed the money (so) he could finish his education.
Correct: He borrowed the money (so that) he could finish his education.

Incorrect: Larry took a bus from New York to California (so) he could see the country.
Correct: Larry took a bus from New York to California (so that) he could see the country.

Incorrect: Many men join fraternities (so) they will be assured of group support.
Correct: Many men join fraternities (so that) they will be assured of group support.

Incorrect: Don't forget to register this week (so) you can vote in the election.
Correct: Don't forget to register this week (so that) you can vote in the election.

Incorrect: Every student needs a social security number (so) he can get a university identification card made.
Correct: Every student needs a social security number (so that) he can get a university identification card made.

Problems With Connectors (2): Question Words as Connectors.

(I don't remember what her name is)

- (S): I
- (V): don't remember
- (question word): what
- (S): her name
- (V): is

([Do] [you] remember [what] [her] [name] [is?])

- (V): Do
- (S): you
- remember
- (question word): what
- (S): her name
- (V): is?

Avoid using (do), (does), or (did) after the question word. Avoid using the verb before the subject after the question word.

Examples:

Incorrect: I didn't understand (what) (did he say).
Correct: I didn't understand (what) (he said).

Incorrect: Do you know (how much) (do they cost?)
Correct: Do you know (how much) (they cost?)

Incorrect: I wonder (when) (is her birthday).
Correct: I wonder (when) (her birthday is).

Incorrect: Could you please tell me (where) (is the post office?)
Correct: Could you please tell me (where) (the post office is?)

Incorrect: Did they tell you (what time) (does the movie start?)
Correct: Did they tell you (what time) (the movie started?)

Problems With Connectors (1): Inclusives and exclusives.

(He enjoys playing [basketball] [as well as] [football])

- He enjoys playing
- (noun): basket ball
- (as well as): as well as
- (noun): football

(He is [intelligent] [as well as] [athletic])

- He is
- (adjective): intelligent
- (as well as): as well as
- (adjective): athletic

(He enjoys playing [soccer] [and] [baseball] [as well as] [tennis])

- He enjoys playing
- (noun): soccer
- (and): and
- (noun): baseball
- (as well as): as well as
- (noun): tennis

(He is [intelligent] [and] [artistic] [as well as] [athletic])

- He is
- (adjective): intelligent
- (and): and
- (adjective): artistic
- (as well as): as well as
- (adjective): athletic

([Both] [Dr.Hery] [and] [miss smith] spoke)

- (both): Both
- (noun): Dr. Hery
- (and): and
- (noun): Miss Smith
- spoke

(The lecture was [both] [interesting] [and] [instructive] spoke)

- The lecture was - (both): both
- (adjective): interesting
- (and): and
- (adjective): instructive
- spoke

Avoid using (as well as) instead of (and) with (both). Avoid using (both...and) for more than two nouns or adjectives.

(One should take [not only] [cash] [but also] [traveler's checks])

- One should take
- (not only): not only
- (noun): cash
- (but also): but also
- (noun): traveler's checks

(Checks are [not only] [safer] [but also] [more conveniet]).

- Checks are
- (not only): not only
- (adjective): safer
- (but also): but also
- (adjective): more convenient

Avoid using (only not) instead of (not only). Avoid using (but) instead of (but also). Avoid using the incorrect pattern:

(Not only cash but traveler's checks also)

- (not only): not only
- (noun): cash
- (but): but
- (noun): traveler's checks
- (also): also

(Not only safer but more convenient also)

- (not only): not only
- (adjective): safer
- (but): but
- (adjective): more convenient
- (also): also

(The largest university is [not] [Minnesota] [but] [Ohio state]).

- The largest university is
- (not): not
- (noun): Minnesota
- (but): but
- (noun): Ohio State

(The school color is [not] [blue] [but] [red]).

- The school color is
- (not): not
- (adjective): Blue
- (but): but
- (adjective): red

Avoid using (only) instead of (but).

Examples:

Incorrect: The program provides (only not) theoretical classes (but also) practical training.
Correct: The program provides (not only) theoretical classes (but also) practical training.

Incorrect: (Both Mary, Ellen and) Jean are going on the tour.
Correct: (Mary (and) Ellen (as well as) Jean are going on the tour.

[OR]

Correct: (Both) Mary (and) Ellen are going on the tour.

Incorrect: According to the, she died (not) of injuries sustained in the accident, (only) of a heart attack.
Correct: According to the, she died (not) of injuries sustained in the accident, (But) of a heart attack.

Incorrect: The new models are (not only) less expensive (but more) difficient also.
Correct: The new models are (not only) less expensive (but also) more difficient.

Incorrect: She speaks (both) English (as well as) Spanish at home.
Correct: She speaks (both) English (and) Spanish at home.

Problems With Comparatives (7): Double Comparatives.

(The more you review, the easier the patterns will be)

- (The): The
- (comparative): more
- (S): you
- (V,): review,
- (the): the
- (comparative): easier
- (S): the patterns
- (V): will be

Remember that a comparative is (more) or (less) with an adjectives, or an adjective with (-er).

Avoid using (as) instead of (the). Avoid using the incorrect form (lesser. Avoid omitting (the). Avoid omitting (- er) from the adjective.

Examples:

Incorrect: (The more) you study during the semester, (the lesser) you have to study the week before exams.
Correct: (The more) you study during the semester, (the less) you have to study the week before exams.

Incorrect: (The faster) we finish, (the soon) we can leave.
Correct: (The faster) we finish, (the sooner) we can leave.

Incorrect: (The less) one earns, (the lesser) one must pay in income taxes.
Correct: (The less) one earns, (the less) one must pay in income taxes.

Incorrect: (The louder) he shouted, (less) he convinced anyone.
Correct: (The louder) he shouted, (the less) he convinced anyone.

Incorrect: (The more) you practice speaking, (the well) you will do it.
correct: (The more) you practice speaking, (the better) you will do it.

Problems With Comparatives (6): Illogical Comparatives.

([The climate in the north] is [more severe] [than] [that] of the south)

- (noun[singular]): The climate in the north
- is
- (more adjective): more severe
- (than): than
- (that): that
- of the south

([The climate in the north] is [colder] [than] [that] of the south)

- (noun[singular]): The climate in the north
- is
- (adjective -er): colder
- (than): than
- (that): that
- of the south

([The price] are [more expensive] [than] [those] at a discount store)

- (noun[plural]): The prices
- are
- (more adjective): more expensive
- (than): than
- (those): those
- at a discount store

([The price] are [higher] [than] [those] at a discount store)

- (noun[plural]): The prices
- are
- (adjective -er): higher
- (than): than
- (those): those
- at a discount store

([Football in the U.S.] is [different] [from] [that] of other countries)

- (noun[singular]): Football in the U.S.
- is
- (different): different
- (from): form
- (that): that
- of other countries

([The rules] are [different] [from] [that] of soccer)

- (noun[plural]): The rules
- are
- (different): different
- (from): form
- (those): those
- of socces

Remember that comparisons must be made with logically comparable nouns.

Avoid omitting (that) and (those). Avoid using (than) instead of (from) with (different.

Examples.

Incorrect: (Her qualifications) are (better than any) other candidate.
Correct: (Her qualifications) are (better than those) of any other candidate.

Incorrect: (The food) in my country is (very different than that) of the United States.
Correct: (The food) in my country is (very different from that) of the United States.

Incorrect: Professor Baker's (class) is (more interesting than) Professor Hery.
Correct: Professor Baker's (class) is (more interesting than that) of Professor Hery.

Incorrect: (The audience) is much (larger than last) year's concert.
Correct: (The audience) is much (larger than that) at last year's concert.

Incorrect: (The classes) at my university are very (different from) State University.
Correct: (The classes) at my university are very (different from those) at State University.

Problems With Comparatives (5): Adjective Comparatives.

(An essay test is [more difficult] [than] an objective test)

- An essay test is
- (more adjective): more difficult
- (than): than
- an objective test

(An essay test is [hader] [than] an objective test)

- An essay test is
- (adjective -er): harder
- (than): than
- an objective test

Remember that two- and three-syllable adjectives adjectives form the comparative by using (more) before the adjective form. One-syllable adjectives form the comparative by using (-er) after the adjective form. Two-syllable adjectives which end in (y) form the comparative by changing the (y) to (i) and adding (-er).

Avoid using (as) or (that) instead of (than). Avoid using both (more) and an (-er) form with the same adjective.

Examples:

Incorrect: She is (more prettier than) her sister.
Correct: She is (prettier than) her sister.

Incorrect: The results of the second experiment are even (better as) the results of the first one.
Correct: The results of the second experiment are even (better than) the results of the first one.

Incorrect: This room is (more spacious as) the other one.
Correct: This room is (more spacious than) the other one.

Incorrect: The bill which we received was (more higher than) the estimate.
Correct: The bill which we received was (higher than) the estimate.

Incorrect: If you had not been in such a hurry, you would have been able to do it (more better).
Correct: If you had not been in such a hurry, you would have been able to do it (better).

Problems With Comparatives (4): Multiple Comparatives.

(Fresh fruit costs [twice] [as] [much] [as] canned fruit)

- Fresh fruit costs
- (multiple): twice
- (as): as
- (much): much
- (as): as
- canned fruit

(We have [half] [as] [many] [as] we need)

- We have
- (multiple): half
- (as): as
- (many): many
- (as): as
- we need

Remember that the following are examples of multiple numbers:

- half
- twice
- three times
- four times
- five times

Avoid using (so) instead of (as) after a multiple. Avoid using (more than) instead of (as much as) or (as many as). Avoid using the multiple after (as much as) and (as many as).

Examples:

Incorrect: This one is prettier, but it costs (twice more than) the other one.
Correct: This one is prettier, but it costs (twice as much as) the other one.

Incorrect: The rent at College Apartments is only (half so much as) you pay here.
Correct: The rent at College Apartments is only (half as much as) you pay here.

Incorrect: Bob found a job that paid (as much twice as) he made working at the library.
Correct: Bob found a job that paid (twice as much as) he made working at the library.

Incorrect: The price was very reasonable; I would gladly have paid (three times more than) he asked.
Correct: The price was very reasonable; I would gladly have paid (three times as much as) he asked.

Incorrect: We didn't buy the car because they wanted (as much twice as) it was worth.
Correct: We didn't buy the car because they wanted (twice as much as) it was worth.

Problems With Comparatives (3): Pseudo-Comparatives.

Remember that although (as high as) and (as soon as) appear to be comparatives, they are idioms. (As high as) introduces a limit of height or cost. (As soon as) introduces a limit of time.

(The price of a haircut runs [as high as] five dollars)

- The price of a haircut runs
- (as high as): as high as
- five dollars

([He] [will] [go] home [as soon as] [he] [graduates])

- (S): He
- (will): will
- (verb): go
- home
- (as soon as): as soon as
- (S): he
- (V[present]): graduates

Avoid using (to) instead of (as). Avoid using (will) and a verb word instead of a present verb after (as soon as).

Examples:

Incorrect: I plan to move (as soon as) (I will) find another apartment.
Correct: I plan to move (as soon as) (I find) another apartment.

Incorrect: Since taxi fare from the airport may run (as high to) twenty dollars, I suggest that you take a limousine.
Correct: Since taxi fare from the airport may run (as high as) twenty dollars, I suggest that you take a limousine.

Incorrect: She will call you back (as soon as) (she will finish) dinner.
Correct: She will call you back (as soon as) (she finishes) dinner.

Incorrect: The cost of one day in an average hospital can run (as high to) $ 250.
Correct: The cost of one day in an average hospital can run (as high as) $ 250.

Incorrect: Your application will be considered (as soon as) (your file will be) complete.
Correct: Your application will be considered (as soon as) (your file is) complete.

Problems With Comparatives (2): More Noun Comparatives.

(She is the same age as john)

- (noun): She
- (V): is
- (the same): the same
- (noun[quality]): age
- (as): as
- (noun): john

Remember that the following are examples of quality nouns:

- age
- color
- height
- length
- price
- size
- style
- weight

Avoid using (to), (than), or (like) instead of (as). Avoid using a quality adjective instead of a quality noun after (the same).

(She is as old as john)


- (noun): She
- (V): is
- (as): as
- (adjective[quality]): old
- (as): as
- (noun): john

Remember that the following are examples of quality adjectives:

- big
- cheap
- clear
- easy
- expensive
- hard
- heavy
- large
- light
- little
- long
- old
- short
- small
- tall
- young

Avoid using (to), (than), or (like) instead of (as). Avoid using a quality noun instead of a quality adjective after (as).

Examples:

Incorrect: Mary worked (as hard than) Bill did.
Correct: Mary worked (as hard as) Bill did.

Incorrect: I want to buy a pair of shoes (the same style like) these I'm wearing.
Correct: I want to buy a pair of shoes (the same style as) these I'm wearing.

Incorrect: Miss Monas' English is not (as clear than) Dr. Hery's.
Correct: Miss Monas' English is not (as clear as) Dr. Hery's.

Incorrect: This is not (the same big as) the rest of the apartments.
Correct: This is not (the same size as) the rest of the apartments.

Incorrect: He is not (as tall like) his brother.
Correct: He is not (as tall as) his brother.

Problems With Comparatives (1): Noun Comparatives.

(I believe that [this coat] [is] [like] [that one])

- I believe that
- (noun): this coat
- (V): is
- (like): like
- (noun): that one

Remember that (like) is a preposition. (As) is a conjunction. Avoid using (as) instead of (like) in prepositional phrases.

(I believe that [this coat] [is] [the same as] [that one])

- I believe that
- (noun): this coat
- (V): is
- (the same as): the same as
- (noun): that one

Avoid using (to), (that), or (like) instead of (as) in the phrase with (the same).

Examples:

Incorrect: That car is almost (the same like) mine.
Correct: That car is almost (like) mine.

[OR]

Correct: That car is almost (the same as) mine.

Incorrect: The weather feels (as) spring.
Correct: The weather feels (like) spring.

Incorrect: My briefcase is exactly (the same that) yours.
Correct: My briefcase is exactly (like) yours.

[OR]

Correct: My briefcase is exactly (the same as) yours.

Incorrect: I would like to see a suit (as) the one in the window.
Correct: I would like to see a suit (like) the one in the window.

[OR]

Correct: I would like to see a suit (the same as) the one in the window.

Incorrect: Is your book (the same to) mine?
Correct: Is your book (like) mine?

[OR]

Correct: Is your book (the same as) mine?

Problems With Modifiers (10): Dates.

(Valentines Day is on [the] [fourteenth] [of] [February])

- Valentines Day is on
- (the): the
- (ordinal number): fourteenth
- (of): of
- (month): February


Avoid using a cardinal number instead of an ordinal number after (the). Avoid omitting (of) or (the) from the pattern.

Examples:

Incorrect: I have an appointment on (the five of june) at three o'clock.
Correct: I have an appointment on (the fifth of june) at three o'clock.

Incorrect: School starts on (sixteen September) this year.
Correct: School starts on (the sixteen of September) this year.

Incorrect: Her birthday is (second December).
Correct: Her birthday is (the second of December).

Incorrect: Please change my reservation to (the ten of November).
Correct: Please change my reservation to (the tenth of November).

Incorrect: Independence Day in the United States is (the four of July).
Correct: Independence Day in the United States is (the fourth of July).

Problems With Modifiers (9): Time Modifiers.

([She] [has] [been] in the U.S. [for] [six months])

- (S): She
- (HAVE): has
- (participle): been
- in the U.S.
- (for): for
- (quantity of time): six months

([She] [has] [been] in the U.S. [since] [june])

- (S): She
- (HAVE): has
- (participle): been
- in the U.S.
- (since): since
- (specific time): june

([She] [has] [been] in the U.S. [since] [six months] [ago])

- (S): She
- (HAVE): has
- (participle): been
- in the U.S.
- (since): since
- (quantity of time): six months
- (ago): ago

Remember that a quantity of time may be several days - a' month, two years, etc. A specific time may be Wednesday, July, 1960, etc.

Avoid using (for) before specific times. Avoid using (for) with (ago). Avoid using (before) after (HAVE) and a participle.


Examples:

Incorrect: Mary has been on a diet (since) (three weeks).
Correct: Mary has been on a diet (for) (three weeks).

[OR]

Correct: Mary has been on a diet (since) (three weeks ago).

Incorrect: She has been living here (before) (April).
Correct: She has been living here (since) (April).

Incorrect: We haven't seen him (since) (almost a year).
Correct: We haven't seen him (for) (almost a year).

[OR]

Correct: We haven't seen him (since) (almost a year ago).

Incorrect: We have known each other (before) (1974).
Correct: We have known each other (since) (1974).

Incorrect: He has studied English (since) (five years).
Correct: He has studied English (for) (five years).

[OR]

Correct: He has studied English (since) (five years ago).

Problems With Modifiers (8): The Adverbs of Manner (Fast) and (Late).

([This medication] [relieves] headache [fast])

- (S): This medication
- (V): relieves
- headache
- (fast): fast

([My roommate] [returned] home [late] last night)

- (S): My roommate
- (V): returned
- home
- (late): late
- last night

Remember that although most adverbs of manner end in (- ly), (fast) and (late) do not have (- ly) endings.

Avoid using the incorrect forms (fastly) and (lately).

Examples:

Incorrect: Helen types (fastly) and efficiently.
Correct: Helen types (fast and efficiently.

Incorrect: The plane is scheduled to arrive (lately) because of bad weather.
Correct: The plane is scheduled to arrive (late) because of bad weather.

Incorrect: Although he ran as (fastly) as he could, he did not win the race.
Correct: Although he ran as (fast) as he could, he did not win the race.

Incorrect: When students register (lately) for classes, They must pay an additional fee.
Correct: When students register (late) for classes, They must pay an additional fee.

Incorrect: First class mail travels as (fastly) as airmail now.
Correct: First class mail travels as (fast) as airmail now.

Problems With Modifiers (7): Adverbs of Manner.

([The class] [listened] [attentively] to the lecture)

- (S): The class
- (V): listened
- (adverb[manner]): attentively
- to the lecture

Remember that adverbs of manner describe the manner in which the verb acts. Adverbs of manner usually end in (- ly).

Avoid using an adjective instead of an adverb of manner. Avoid using an adverb of manner between the two words of an infinitive.

Examples:

Incorrect: After only six months in the United States, jack understood everyone (perfect).
Correct: After only six months in the United States, jack understood everyone (perfectly).

Incorrect: Please do (exact) as your doctor says.
Correct: Please do (exactly) as your doctor says.

Incorrect: From the top of the Empire State Building, tourists are able to (clearly) see New York.
Correct: From the top of the Empire State Building, tourists are able to see New York (clearly).

Incorrect: (Board) speaking, curriculum includes all experience which the student may have within the environment of the school.
Correct: (Boardly) speaking, curriculum includes all experience which the student may have within the environment of the school.

Incorrect: Passengers travel (comfortable) and safely in the new jumbo jets.
Correct: Passengers travel (comfortably) and safely in the new jumbo jets.

Problems With Modifiers (6): Adjective With Verbs of the Senses.

([I] [felt] [bad] about the mistake)

- (S): I
- (V[sense]): felt
- (adjective): bad
- about the mistake

Avoid using an adverb instead of an adjective of the senses.
Remember that the following verbs are examples of verbs of the sense:

- feel
- look
- smell
- sound
- state

Examples:

Incorrect: We love to go to the country in the spring because the wild flowers (smell) so (sweetly).
Correct: We love to go to the country in the spring because the wild flowers (smell) so (sweet).

Incorrect: Although the medicine (tastes) (badly), it seems to help my condition.
Correct: Although the medicine (tastes) (bad), it seems to help my condition.

Incorrect: The meal (tasted) (well).
Correct: The meal (tasted) (good).

Incorrect: The music (sounds) (sweetly) and soothing.
Correct: The music (sounds) (sweet) and soothing.

Incorrect: When he complained that the food (tasted) (badly), the waiter took it back to the kitchen and brought him something else.
Correct: When he complained that the food (tasted) (bad), the waiter took it back to the kitchen and brought him something else.

Problems With Modifiers (5): Sufficiency for a Purpose.

([It] [is] [warm] [enough] [to go] swimming)

- (S): It
- (V): is
- (adjective): warm
- (enough): enough
- (infinitive): to go
- swimming


([It] [is] [not] [warm] [enough] [to go] swimming)

- (S): It
- (V): is
- (not): not
- (adjective): warm
- (enough): enough
- (infinitive): to go
- swimming

Avoid using (enough) before the adjective instead of after it. Avoid using (as) between (enough) and the infinitive.

Examples:

Incorrect: He little car isn't (big enough as) to seat more than two people comfortably.
Correct: He little car isn't (big enough) to seat more than two people comfortably.

Incorrect: That excuse isn't (enough good).
Correct: That excuse isn't (good enough).

Incorrect: He should be (as strong enough) to get out of bed in a few days.
Correct: He should be (strong enough) to get out of bed in a few days.

Incorrect: Billy isn't (enough old) to enlist in the army.
Correct: Billy isn't (old enough) to enlist in the army.

Incorrect: His score on the exam was (enough good) to qualify him for a graduate program.
Correct: His score on the exam was (good enough) to qualify him for a graduate program.

Problems With Modifiers (4): More Cause-and-Result.

(It was such a lovely day that we went out)

- (S): It
- (V): was
- (such): such
- (a): a
- (adjective): lovely
- (noun[singular]): day
- (that): that
- (S): we
- (V): went out

[OR]

(It was so lovely a day that we went out)

- (S): It
- (V): was
- (so): so
- (adjective): lovely
- (a): a
- (noun[singular]): day
- (that): that
- (S): we
- (V): went out

Avoid using (so) instead of (such) before (a). Avoid omitting (a) from the patterns.

([These] [are] [such] [long] [assignments] [that] [I] [can't finish] them)

- (S): These
- (V): are
- (such): such
- (adjective): long
- (noun[plural]): assignments
- (that): that
- (S): I
- (V): can't finish
- them

([This] [is] [such] [good] [news] [that] [I] [will call] them)

- (S): This
- (V): is
- (such): such
- (adjective): good
- (noun[non-count]): news
- (that): that
- (S): I
- (V): will call
- them

Avoid using (so) instead of (such).

Examples:

Incorrect: It was (so interesting book) that he couldn't put it down.
Correct: It was (such an interesting book) that he couldn't put it down.

[OR]

correct: It was (so interesting a book) that he couldn't put it down.

Incorrect: She is (such nice girl) that everyone likes her.
Correct: She is (such a nice girl) that everyone likes her.

[OR]

Correct: She is (such nice a girl) that everyone likes her.

Incorrect: We had (so a small lunch) that I am hungry already.
Correct: We had (such a small lunch) that I am hungry already.

[OR]

Correct: We had (so small a lunch) that I am hungry already.

Incorrect: That so many advances have been made in (so short time) is the most valid argument for retaining the research unit.
Correct: That so many advances have been made in (such a short time) is the most valid argument for retaining the research unit.

[OR]

Correct: That so many advances have been made in (so short a time) is the most valid argument for retaining the research unit.

Incorrect: It is (so nice weather) that I would like to go to the beach.
Correct: It is (such nice weather) that I would like to go to the beach.

Problems With Modifiers (3): Modifiers of Cause in Clauses of Cause-and-Result.

([She] [got up] [so] [late] [that] [she] [missed] her bus)

- (S): She
- (V): got up
- (so): so
- (adverb): late
- (that): that
- (S): She
- (V): missed
- her bus

(The music was so loud that we couldn't talk)

- (S): The music
- (V): was
- (so): so
- (adjective): loud
- (that): that
- (S): we
- (V): couldn't talk

Avoid using (as) or (too) instead of (so). Avoid using (as) instead of (that).

Examples:

Incorrect: He is (so slow as) he never gets to class on time.
Correct: He is (so slow that) he never gets to class on time.

Incorrect: This suitcase is (as heavy that) I can hardly carry it.
Correct: This suitcase is (so heavy that) I can hardly carry it.

Incorrect: We arrived (so late as) Professor Hery had already called the roll.
Correct: We arrived (so late that) Professor Hery had already called the roll.

Incorrect: He drives (so fast as) no one likes to ride with him.
Correct: He drives (so fast that) no one likes to ride with him.

Incorrect: Preparing frozen foods is (too easy that) anyone can do it.
Correct: Preparing frozen foods is (so easy that) anyone can do it.

Problems With Modifiers (2): Hyphenated Adjective.

Remember that it is common for a number to appear as the first in a series of hyphenated adjectives.

(Agriculture 420 is [a] [five] [-] [hour] [class])

- Agriculture 420 is
- (a): a
- (adjective): five
- (-): -
- (adjective): hour
- (noun): class

([A] [sixty] [-] [year] [-] [old] [employee] may retire)

- (a): A
- (adjective): sixty
- (-): -
- (adjective): year
- (-): -
- (adjective): old
- (noun): employee
- may retire

Avoid using a plural form for any of the adjectives joined by hyphens even when the noun is plural.

Examples:

Incorrect: (A three- minutes call) anywhere in the United States cost less than a dollar when you dial it yourself.
Correct: (A three- minute call) anywhere in the United States cost less than a dollar when you dial it yourself.

Incorrect: They have (a four-months-old baby).
Correct: They have (a four-month-old baby).

Incorrect: Can you make change for (a twenty-dollars bill?)
Correct: Can you make change for (a twenty-dollar bill?)

Incorrect: (A two-doors car) is cheaper than (a four-doors model).
Correct: (A two-door car) is cheaper than (a four-door model).

Incorrect: I have to write (a one-thousand-words paper) this weekend.
Correct: I have to write (a one-thousand-word paper) this weekend.

Problems With Modifiers (1): Nouns Which Function as Adjectives.

Remember that when two nouns occur together, the first noun describes the second noun; that is, the first noun functions as an adjective.

(All of us are foreign [languange] [teachers])

- All of us are foreign
- (noun): languange
- (noun): teachers


Avoid using a plural for the first noun even when the second noun is plural. Avoid using a possessive form for the first noun.

Examples:

Incorrect: May I borrow some (notebooks paper?)
Correct: May I borrow some (notebook paper?)

Incorrect: All (business' students) must take the Graduate Management Admission Test.
Correct: All (business students) must take the Graduate Management Admission Test.

Incorrect: I forgot their (telephone's number).
Correct: I forgot their (telephone number).

Incorrect: There is a sale at the (shoes store).
Correct: There is a sale at the (shoe store).

Incorrect: Put the mail on the (hall's table).
Correct: Put the mail on the (hall table).

Problems With Nouns (3): Numbers With Nouns.

(I am outlining [the] [sixth] [chapter] in my notebook)

- I am outlining
- (the): the
- (ordinal number): sixth
- (noun): chapter - in my note book

Remember that the following are ordinal numbers:

- first
- second
- third
- fourth
- fifth
- sixth
- seventh
- eighth
- ninth
- tenth
- eleventh
- twelfth
- thirteenth
- fourteenth
- fifteenth
- sixteenth
- seventeenth
- eighteenth
- nineteenth
- twentieth

Avoid using (the) before the noun instead of before the ordinal number.
Avoid using a cardinal instead of an ordinal number.

(I am outlining [chapter] [six] in my notebook)

- I am outlining
- (noun): chapter
- (cardinal number): six
- in my notebook

Remember that the following are cardinal numbers:


- one
- two
- three
- four
- five
- six
- seven
- eigh
- nine
- ten
- eleven
- twelve
- thirteen
- fourteen
- fifteen
- sixteen
- seventeen
- eighteen
- nineteen
- twenty

Avoid using (the) before the cardinal number or before the noun. Avoid using an ordinal number instead of a cardinal number.

Incorrect: Flight 656 for Los Angeles is now ready for boarding at (the concourse seven).
Correct: Flight 656 for Los Angeles is now ready for boarding at (concourse seven).

Incorrect: We left before the begining of (act third).
Correct: We left before the begining of (the third act).

[OR]

Correct: We left before the begining of (act three)

Incorrect: You tickets are for (gate the tenth), section B.
Correct: You tickets are for (gate ten), section B.

Incorrect: Look in (volume second) of the Modern Medical Dictionary.
Correct: Look in (the second volume) of the Modern Medical Dictionary.

[OR]

Correct: Look in (volume two) of the Modern Medical Dictionary.

Incorrect: The New York-Whasington train is arriving on (track the fourth).
Correct: The New York-Whasington train is arriving on (track four).

Problems With Nouns (2): Singular Expressions of Non-count Nouns.

(A folk song is [a] [piece] [of] [popular music])

- A folk song is
- (a): a
- (singular): piece
- (of)
- (noun[non-count]): popular music

Remember that the following singular expressions are idiomatic:

- a piece of bread
- a piece of equipment
- a piece of furniture
- a piece of jewelry
- a piece of luggage
- a piece of mail
- a piece of music
- a piece of toast
- a loaf of bread
- a slice of bread
- an ear of corn

Incorrect: (A mail) travels faster when the zip code is indicated on the envelope.
Correct: (A piece of mail) travels faster when the zip code is indicated on the envelope.

Incorrect: There is a limit of (one carry-on luggage) for each passenger.
Correct: There is a limit of (one piece of carry-on luggage) for each passenger.

Incorrect: (Each furniture) in this display is on sale for half price.
Correct: (Each piece of furniture) in this display is on sale for half price.

Incorrect: I'd like a steak, a salad, and (a corn's ear) with butter.
correct: I'd like a steak, a salad, and (an ear of corn) with butter.

Incorrect: The Engineering Department purchased (a new equipment) to simulate conditions in outer space.
Correct: The Engineering Department purchased (a new piece of equipment) to simulate conditions in outer space.

Problems With Nouns (1): Count and Non-count Nouns.

(There are [Few] [reference books] may be checked out)

- There are
- (few): Few
- (noun[count]): reference books
- may be checked out

(There are [many] [television] for children on saturday)

- There are
- (many): many
- (noun[count]): television programs
- for children on saturday

Remember tha the following nouns are examples of count nouns:

- books
- classes
- dollars
- friends
- programs
- seats

Avoid using a non-count noun instead of a count noun after (few) and (many).


(Before he came to the U.S., he had done [little] [traveling])

- Before he came to the U.S., he had done
- (little): little
- (noun[non-count]): traveling

(We don't have[much] [information])

- We don't have
- (much): much
- (noun[non-count]): information

Remember that the following nouns are examples of non-count nouns:

- advice
- hair
- homework
- information
- money
- news

Avoid using a count noun instead of a non-count noun after (little) and (much).

([Only] [a few] [dollars] have been budgeted for supplies)

- (only): Only
- (a few): a few
- (noun[count]): dollars
- have been budgeted for supplies

Avoid using (few) instead of a (few) after (only).

(We have[only] [a little] [homework] for monday)

- We have
- (only): only
- (a little): a little
- (noun[non-count]): homework
- for monday

Avoid using (little) instead of a (little) after (only).

Examples:

Incorrect: He had to balance his account very carefully because he had (few money).
Correct: He had to balance his account very carefully because he had (little money).

Incorrect: The letter was short because there wasn't (many news).
Correct: The letter was short because there wasn't (much news).

Incorrect: She knows very (few English).
Correct: She knows very (little English).

Incorrect: There are (only) (few seats) left.
Correct: There are (only) (a few seats) left.

Incorrect: Hery has very (little friends).
Correct: Hery has very (few friends).

Problems With Pronouns (5): Relative Pronouns Which Refer to Persons and Things.

(She is [the secretary] [who] works in the international office)

- She is
- (someone): the secretary
- (who): who
- works in the international office

Avoid using (which) instead of (who) in reference to a person.

(This is [the new typewriter] [which] you ordered)

- This is
- (something): the new typewriter
- (which): which
- you ordered

Avoid using (who) instead of (which) in reference to a thing.

Examples:

Incorrect: (The people) (which) cheated on the examination had to leave the room.
Correct: (The people) (who) cheated on the examination had to leave the room.

Incorrect: There is (someone) on line two (which) would like to speak with you.
Correct: There is (someone) on line two (who) would like to speak with you.

Incorrect: Who is (the man) (which) asked the question?
Correct: Who is (the man) (who) asked the question?

Incorrect: (The person) (which) was recommended for the position did not fulfill the minimum requirements.
Correct: (The person) (who) was recommended for the position did not fulfill the minimum requirements.

Incorrect: (The student) (which) receives the highest score will be awarded a scholarship.
Correct: (The student) (who) receives the highest score will be awarded a scholarship.

Problems With Pronouns (4): Relative Pronouns Which Refer to Persons.

(Everyone [who] [took] the tour was impressed by the paintings)

- Everyone
- (who): who
- (V): took
- the tour was impressed by the paintings

Avoid using (whom) as the subject of a verb.

(He was the only American [whom] [I] [saw] at the conference)

- He was the only American
- (whom): whom
- (S): I
- (V): saw
- at the conference

Avoid using (who) instead of (whom) before a subject and a verb.

Examples:

Incorrect: I asked him (who) (he was calling).
correct: I asked him (whom) (he was calling).

Incorrect: Did you meet the girl (whom) (was chosen) Homecoming Queen?
Correct: Did you meet the girl (who) (was chosen) Homecoming Queen?

Incorrect: He didn't know (who) (he would take) to the party.
Correct: He didn't know (whom) (he would take) to the party.

Incorrect: I know the candidate (whom) (was elected).
Correct: I know the candidate (who) (was elected).

Incorrect: There is often disagreement as to (whom) (is) the better student, Bob or Ellen.
Correct: There is often disagreement as to (who) (is) the better student, Bob or Ellen.

Problems With Pronouns (3): Prepositions With Object Pronouns.

(I would be glad to take a message [for] [her])

- I would be glad to take a message
- (preposition): for
- (pronoun[object]): her

Remember that the following prepositions are commonly used with object pronouns:

- among
- between
- for
- from
- of
- to
- with

Avoid using a subject pronoun instead of an object pronoun after a preposition.


Examples:

Incorrect: The experiment proved (to) my lab partner and (I) that prejudices about the results of an investigation are often unfounded.
Correct: The experiment proved (to) my lab partner and (me) that prejudices about the results of an investigation are often unfounded.

Incorrect: Of those who graduated (with) betty and (he), Ellen is the only one who has found a good job.
Correct: Of those who graduated (with) betty and (him), Ellen is the only one who has found a good job.

Incorrect: (Among we) men, it was he who always acted as the interpreter.
Correct: (Among us) men, it was he who always acted as the interpreter.

Incorrect: The cake is from jan and the flowers are (from) Larry and (we).
correct: The cake is from jan and the flowers are (from) Larry and (us).

Incorrect: Just (between) you and (I), this isn't a very good price.
Correct: Just (between) you and (me), this isn't a very good price.

Problems With Pronouns (2): Subject and Object Pronouns.

(If the weather is good, [Ellen and I] [will go] to the beach)

- If the weather is good,
- (pronoun[subject]): Ellen and I
- (V): will go
- to the beach

Remember that the following pronouns are subject pronouns:

- I
- you
- she
- he
- it
- we
- you
- they

Avoid using an object pronoun as a subject.

([It] [is] [he] whom the committee has named)
- (it): it
- (BE): asked
- (pronoun[object]): he
- whom the committee has named

Avoid using an object pronoun instead of a subject pronoun after the verb (BE).




([They] [asked] [us, Jane and me,] whether we were satisfied

- (S): They
- (V): asked
- (pronoun[object]): us, Jane and me,
- whether we were satisfied

Remember that the following pronouns are object pronouns:

- me
- you
- her
- him
- it
- us
- you
- them

Avoid using a subject pronoun as an object.

([Let] [us, you and me,] [Try] to reach an agreement)

- (Let): Let
- (pronoun[object]): us, you and me,
- (V): try
- to reach an agreement

Avoid using a subject pronoun after (let).


Examples:


Incorrect: (It was her) whom everyone wanted to win.
Correct: (It was she) whom everyone wanted to win.

Incorrect: (He) always (helps) my wife and (I) with our tax returns.
Correct: (He) always (helps) my wife and (me) with our tax returns.

Incorrect: Do you really believe that she has blamed (us) for the accident, especially (you and I?)
Correct: Do you really believe that she has blamed (us) for the accident, especially (you and me?)

Incorrect: (Let you and I) promise not to quarrel about such unimportant matters anymore.
Correct: (Let you and me) promise not to quarrel about such unimportant matters anymore.

Incorrect: When he comes back from vacation, (Hery and me plan) to look for another apartment.
correct: When he comes back from vacation, (Hery and I plan) to look for another apartment.

Problems With Pronouns (1): (- ing) Forms Modified by Possessive Pronouns.

([We] [can count on] [her] [helping] us)

- (S): We
- (V Ph): can count on
- (pronoun[possessive]): her
- (- ing form): helping
- Us

([He] [regretted] [their] [misunderstanding] him)

- (S): He
- (V): regretted
- (pronoun[possessive]): their
- (- ing form): misudestanding
- him

Remember that the following are possessive pronouns:

- my
- your
- her
- his
- its
- our
- your
- their

Avoid using subject or object pronouns between the verb and the (- ing) form.

Examples:

Incorrect: We don't understand why you object to (him coming) with us.
Correct: We don't understand why you object to (his coming) with us.

Incorrect: I would appreciate (you letting) me know as soon as possible.
Correct: I would appreciate (your letting) me know as soon as possible.

Incorrect: The doctor insisted on (she taking) a leave of absence.
Correct: The doctor insisted on (her taking) a leave of absence.

Incorrect: He is surprised by (you having) to pay for the accident.
Correct: He is surprised by (your having) to pay for the accident.

Incorrect: My father approves of (me studying) in the United States.
Correct: My father approves of (my studying) in the United States.

Problems With Verbs (22): Negative Imperatives.

([Please don't] [tell] anyone)

- (please don't): please don't
- (verb word): tell
- anyone

Avoid using an infinitive instead of a verb word.

([would you please not] [tell] anyone).

- (would you please not): would you please not
- (verb word): tell
- anyone

Avoid using an infinitive instead of a verb word. Avoid using (don't) after (would you please.

Examples:

Incorrect: (Would you please don't smoke?)
Correct: (Please don't smoke).

[OR]

Correct: (Would you please not smoke?)

Incorrect: (Please don't to park) here.
Correct: (Please don't park) here.

[OR]

correct: (Would you please not park) here?

Incorrect: (Would you please not to be) late?
correct: (please don't be) late.

[OR]

Correct: (Would you please not be) late?

Incorrect: (Please don't to go) yet.
Correct: (Please don't go) yet.

[OR]

correct: (Would you please not to go) yet?

Incorrect: (Would you please don't worry?)
Correct: (please don't worry).

[OR]

Correct: (Would you please not worry?)

Problems With Verbs (21): Negative agreement.

(My roommate won't go, and neither will I)

- (S): My roommate
- (MODAL): won't
- (verb word): go,
- (and): and
- (neither): neither
- (MODAL): will
- (S): I

(My roommate hasn't gone, and neither have I)

- (S): My roommate
- (HAVE): hasn't
- (participle): gone,
- (and): and
- (neither): neither
- (HAVE): have
- (S): I

(My roommate doesn't go, and neither do I)

- (S): My roommate
- (DO): doesn't
- (verb word): go,
- (and): and
- (neither): neither
- (DO): do
- (S): I

(My roommate isn't going, and neither am I)

- (S): My roommate
- (BE not): isn't
- (- ing form): going,
- (and): and
- (neither): neither
- (BE): am
- (S): I


Avoid using (either) instead of neither. Avoid using the subject before (BE), (DO), (HAVE), or the modal in a clause with (neither).


(My roommate won't go, and I won't either)

- (S): My roommate
- (MODAL): won't
- (verb word): go,
- (and): and
- (S): I
- (MODAL): won't
- (either): either


(My roommate hasn't gone, and I haven't either)

- (S): My roommate
- (HAVE): hasn't
- (participle): gone,
- (and): and
- (S): I
- (HAVE): haven't
- (Either): either


(My roommate doesn't go, and I don't either)

- (S): My roommate
- (DO): doesn't
- (verb word): go,
- (and): and
- (S): I
- (DO): don't
- (Either): either


(My roommate isn't going, and I'm not either)

- (S): My roommate
- (BE not): isn't
- (- ing form,): going,
- (and): and
- (S): I
- (BE not): 'm not
- (either): either

Avoid using (neither) instead of (either).

Examples:

Incorrect: (She hasn't finished) the assignment yet, and (neither I have).
Correct: (She hasn't finished) the assignment yet, and (neither have I).

[OR]

Correct: (She hasn't finished) the assignment yet, and (I haven't either).

Incorrect: (I didn't know) the answer, and (he didn't neither)
Correct: (I didn't know) the answer, and (neither did he).

[OR]

Correct: (I didn't know) the answer, and (he didn't either)

Incorrect: If (Jane won't go) to the party, (either will he).
Correct: If (Jane won't go) to the party, (neither will he).

[OR]

correct: If (Jane won't go) to the party, (he won't either).

Incorrect: (She is not) in agreement, and (neither do I).
Correct: (She is not) in agreement, and (neither am I).

[OR]

Correct: (She is not) in agreement, and (I'm not either).

Incorrect: (He won't be) here today, and (either his sister will).
Correct: (He won't be) here today, and (neither will his sister).

[OR]

correct: (He won't be) here today, and (his sister won't either).

Problems With Verbs (20): Affirmative Agreement.

(They were surprised, and so were we)

- (S): They
- (BE): were
- ( , ): surprised,
- (and): and
- (so): so
- (BE): were
- (S): we

Avoid using (also) instead of (so). Avoid using the incorrect pattern:

(They were surprised, and we were so)

- (S): They
- (BE): were
- ( , ): surprised,
- (and): and
- (S): we
- (BE): were
- (so): so




(My wife talked to him about it, and so did I)

- (S): My wife
- (V): talked
- ( , ): to him about it
- (and): and
- (so): so
- (DO): did
- (S): I

Avoid using (BE) instead of (DO). Avoid using the verb again instead of (DO). Avoid using the incorrect pattern:

(My wife talked to him about it, and I did so)

- (S): My wife
- (V): talked
- ( , ): to him about it,
- (and): and
- (S): I
- (DO): did
- (so): so


Examples:

Incorrect: (We are going) to the concert, and (so do they).
Correct: (We are going) to the concert, and (so are they).

Incorrect: (He likes) to travel, and (so is she).
Correct: (He likes) to travel, and (so does she).

Incorrect: (I am worried) about it, and (also is he)
Correct: (I am worried) about it, and (so is he)

Incorrect: (Mary wants) to go home, and (so want we).
Correct: (Mary wants) to go home, and (so do we).

Incorrect: (She took) pictures, and (I did so.)
Correct: (She took) pictures, and (so did I.)

Problems With Verbs (19): Ambiguous Tag Questions.

The abbreviation ('s) may refer to either (is) or (has).

(She's doing her best isn't she?)

- (S's): She's
- (- ing form): doing
- ( , ): her best,
- (isn't): Isn't
- (S): she?

Avoid using (hasn't) instead of (isn't) when the abbreviation is followed by an (- ing) form.

- (S's): She's
- (participle): done
- ( , ): her best,
- (hasn't): hasn't
- (S): she?

Avoid using (isn't) instead of (hasn't) when the abbreviation is followed by a participle.




The abbreviation ('d) may refer to either (would) or (had).

(He'd work overtime, wouldn't he?)

- (S'd): He'd
- (verb word): work
- ( , ): overtime,
- (wouldn't): wouldn't
- (S): he?

Avoid using (hadn't) instead of (wouldn't) when the abbreviation is followed by a verb word.

(He'd worked overtime, hadn't he?)

- (S'd): He'd
- (participle): worked
- ( , ): overtime,
- (hadn't): hadn't
- (S): he?

Avoid using (wouldn't) instead of (hadn't) when the abbreviation is followed by a participle.


Examples

Incorrect: (She's taken) the test already, (isn't she?)
Correct: (She's taken) the test already, (hasn't she?)

Incorrect: (They'd go) with us, (hadn't they?)
Correct: (They'd go) with us, (wouldn't they?)

Incorrect: (He's writing) her another letter, (hasn't he?)
Correct: (He's writing) her another letter, (isn't he?)

Incorrect: (We'd decided) to open a joint account, (wouldn't we?)
Correct: (We'd decided) to open a joint account, (hadn't we?)

Incorrect: (He's been) elected, (isn't he?)
Correct: (He's been) elected, (hasn't he?)

Problems With Verbs (18): More Tag Questions.

(You will help, won't you?)

- (S): you
- (will): will
- (verb word,): help,
- (won't): won't
- (S): you?

Avoid using (will) instead of (won't).

(He can swim, can't he?)

- (S): He
- (can): can
- (verb word,): swim,
- (can't): can't
- (S): he?

Avoid using (can) instead of (can't).

(We have to hurry, don't we?)

- (S): We
- (HAVE to): have to
- (verb word,): hurry,
- (DO not): don't
- (S): we?

Avoid using (HAVE not) instead of (DO not).

(She had to leave, didn't she?)

- (S): She
- (had to): had to
- (verb word,): leave,
- (didn't): didn't
- (S): She?

Avoid using (hadn't) instead of (didn't).

(I ought to complain, shouldn't I?)

- (S): I
- (ought to): ought to
- (verb word,): complain,
- (shouldn't): shouldn't
- (S): I?

Avoid using the incorrect form (oughtn't) instead of (shouldn't).

(Let's talk about it, shall we?)

- (Let's): Let's
- (verb word): talk
- ( , ): about it,
- (shall): shall
- (we): we?

Avoid using (doesn't) or (don't) instead of (shall).

Examples:

Incorrect: (We have to) sign this, (have we?)
Correct: (We have to) sign this, (don't we?)

Incorrect: (Let's go) home, (don't we?)
Correct: (Let's go) home, (shall we?)

Incorrect: (You can) buy almost anything in a drug store, (can you?)
Correct: (You can) buy almost anything in a drug store, (can't you?)

Incorrect: (She ought to) go by plane, (oughtn't she?)
Correct: (She ought to) go by plane, (shouldn't she?)

Incorrect: (He will meet) us there, (will he?)
Correct: (He will meet) us there, (won't he?)

Problems With Verbs (17): Tag Questions.

Tag question are used frequently in conversation to encourage agreement or to verify a statement.

Remember that the subject in the main clause and the subject in the tag question must refer to the same person or thing. The tag question is separated from the main clause by a comma.

(The mail is late, isn't it?)

- (S): the mail
- (BE): is
- ( , ): late,
- (BE not): isn't
- (S): it?

(The mail isn't late again, is it?)

- (S): The mail
- (BE not): isn't
- ( , ): late again,
- (BE): is
- (S): it?

Avoid using a negative in both the main clause and the tag question.

(They agree with us, don't they?)

- (S): They
- (V[present]): agree
- ( , ): with us,
- (DO not): don't
- (S)

Avoid using (won't) instead of (don't) or (doesn't). Avoid using did.

(They agreed with us, didn't they?)

- (S): they
- (V[past]): agreed
- ( , ): with us,
- (did not): didn't
- (S): they?

Avoid using (don't) or (doesn't) instead of (didn't).

Examples:

Incorrect: (I owe) you twenty dollars, (won't I?)
Correct: (I owe) you twenty dollars, (don't I?)

Incorrect: (It isn't) as hot as it was yesterday, (isn't it?)
Correct: (It isn't) as hot as it was yesterday, (is it?)

Incorrect: (He played) very well, (doesn't he?)
Correct: (He played) very well, (didn't he?)

Incorrect: (It isn't) far from the university, (isn't it?)
Correct: (It isn't) far from the university, (is it?)

Incorrect: (She understood) the question, (doesn't she?)
Correct: (She understood) the question, (didn't she?)

Problems With Verbs (16): Causatives.

([My English teacher] [had] [us] [give] oral reports.)

- (S): My English teacher
- (HAVE): had
- (someone): us
- (verb word): give
- oral reports

Avoid using an infinitive or an (- ing) form instead of a verb word before a person in patterns of cause.

([His mother] [made] [him] [take] his medicine)

- (S): His mother
- (MAKE): made
- (some one): him
- (verb word): take
- his medicine

Avoid using an infinitive or an (- ing) form instead of a verb word before a person in patterns of cause.

([I] want [to have] [this book] [renewed,] please.)

- (S): I
- want
- (HAVE): to have
- (something): this book
- (participle): renewed,
- please

Avoid using a verb word an infinitive of a participle before a thing in patterns of cause.

Examples:

Incorrect: Hery (had a tooth fill).
Correct: Hery (had a tooth filled).

Incorrect: She (made the baby to take) a nap.
correct: She (made the baby take) a nap.

Incorrect: Professor Hery (had us to write) a paper instead of taking a final exam.
Correct: Professor Hery (had us write) a paper instead of taking a final exam.

Incorrect: Have you (had your temperature taking) yet?
Correct: Have you (had your temperature taken) yet?

Incorrect: They (had their lawyer to change) their will.
correct: They (had their lawyer change) their will.

Problems With Verbs (15): Impersonal Expressions.

([It is] [important] [to verify] the data.)

- (it is): It is
- (adjective): important
- (infinitive): to verify
- the data

[OR]

([It is] [important] [that] [the data] [be] verified)

- (it is): It is
- (adjective): important
- (that): that
- (S): the data
- (verb word): be
- verified

Remember that the following adjectives are used in this pattern:
- essential
- imperative
- important
- necessary

Avoid using a present verb instead of a verb word. Avoid using a modal before the verb word.


Examples:

Incorrect: (It is not necessary that you must take) an entrance examination to be admitted to an American university.
Correct: (It is not necessary to take) an entrance examination to be admitted to an American university.

[OR]

Correct: (It is not necessary) that you (take) an entrance examination to be admitted to an American university.

Incorrect: (It is imperative) (that you are) on time.
Correct: (It is imperative) (to be) on time.

[OR]

correct: (It is imperative) that you (be) on time.

Incorrect: (It is important) (that I will speak) with Mr. Hery immediately.
Correct: (It is important) (to speak) with Mr. Hery immediately.

[OR]

Correct: (It is important) that (I speak) with Mr. Hery immediately.

Incorrect: (It is imperative) (that your signature appears) on your indentification card.
correct: (It is imperative) (to sign) your indentification card.

[OR]

correct: (It is imperative) that your signature (appear) on your indentification card.

Incorrect: (It is essential) (that) all applications and transcripts (are filed) no later than july 1.
Correct: (It is essential) (to file) all applications and transcripts no later than july 1.

[OR]

Correct: (It is essential) that all applications and transcripts (be) filed no later than july 1.

Problems With Verbs (14): Subjunctive.

([Mr.hery] [prefers] [that] [she] [speak] with him personally)

- (S): Mr.hery
- (V): prefers
- (that): that
- (S): she
- (verb word): speak
- with him personally

Remember that the following verbs are used before (that) and the verb word clause:

- ask
- demand
- desire
- insist
- prefer
- recommend
- require
- suggest

Avoid using a present or past verb instead of a verb word. Avoid using a modal before the verb word.

([The recommendation] [that] [we] [be] evaluated was approved.)

- (noun): The recommendation
- (that): that
- (S): we
- (verb word): be
- evaluated was approved.

Remember that the following nouns are used in this pattern:

- recommendation
- requirement
- suggestion

Avoid using a present or past verb instead of a verb word. Avoid using a modal before the verb word.

Examples:

Incorrect: The doctor (suggested) that she (will not smoke)
Correct: The doctor (suggested) that she (not smoke)

Incorrect: He complied with the (requirement) that all graduate students in education (should write) a thesis.
Correct: He complied with the (requirement) that all graduate students in education (write) a thesis.

Incorrect: The foreign student advisor (recommended) that she (studied) more English before enrolling at the university.
Correct: The foreign student advisor (recommended) that she (study) more English before enrolling at the university.

Incorrect: The law (requires) that everyone (has) his car checked at least once a year.
Correct: The law (requires) that everyone (have) his car checked at least once a year.

Incorrect: She (insisted) that they (should give) her a receipt.
Correct: She (insisted) that they (give) her a receipt.

Problems With Verbs (13): Contrary-to-fact Statements.

([If] [the party] [were] on Friday,we could go.)

- (if): If
- (S): the party
- (were): were
- on Friday, we could go.

Avoid changing (were) to agree with the subject in contrary-to-fact statements.

([I] [wish] [that] [the party] [were] on Friday.)

- (S): I
- (WISH[present]): wish
- (that): that
- (S): the party
- (were): were
- on Friday

Avoid changing (were to agree with the subject.


Examples:

Incorrect: If I ( was) you, I would not go.
Correct: If I (were) you, I would not go.

Incorrect: I wish that it (was) true.
Correct: I wish that it (were) true.

Incorrect: Bill wishes that she (is) more interested in his work.
Correct: Bill wishes that she (were) more interested in his work.

Incorrect: If it (is) not so far, we could go for the weekend.
Correct: If it (were) not so far, we could go for the weekend.

Incorrect: I wish that he (was) here.
Correct: I wish that he (were) here.

Problems With Verbs (12): Desires

([I] [wish] [that] [you] [had] [called] yesterday)

- (S): I
- (WISH[present]): wish
- (that): that
- (S): you
- (had): had
- (participle): called
- yesterday

([I] [wish] [that] [you] [could have] [called] yesterday.)

- (S): I
- (WISH[present]): wish
- (that): that
- (S): you
- (could have): could have
- (participle): called
- yesterday

([I] [wish] [that] [you] [would have] [called] yesterday.)

- (S): I
- (WISH[present]): wish
- (that): that
- (S): you
- (would have): could have
- (participle): called
- yesterday

Remember that although the verb (WISH) is in present tense, this pattern refers to desires in the past.

([I] [wish] [that] [you] [called] every day.)

- (S): I
- (WISH[present]): wish
- (that): that
- (S): you
- (V[past]): called
- every day

([I] [wish] [that] [you] [could call] tomorrow.)

- (S): I
- (WISH[present]): wish
- (that): that
- (S): you
- (Could verb word): could call
- tomorrow


([I] [wish] [that] [you] [would call] tomorrow.)

- (S): I
- (WISH[present]): wish
- (that): that
- (S): you
- (Would verb word): would call
- tomorrow

Remember that although the verb (WISH) is in present tense, this pattern refers to desires for customs and future events.

Avoid using this pattern to express desires in the past. Avoid using (will) instead of (could) and (would).

Examples:

Incorrect: I wish that I (received) this letter before the office closed for the day.
Correct: I wish that I (had received) this letter before the office closed for the day.

[OR]

Correct: I wish that I (could have received) this letter before the office closed for the day.

[OR]

Correct: I wish that I (would have received) this letter before the office closed for the day.

Incorrect: We wish that you (will change) your mind about leaving tomorrow.
Correct: We wish that you (could change) your mind about leaving tomorrow.

[OR]

Correct: We wish that you (would change) your mind about leaving tomorrow.

Incorrect: Mary wishes that she (has studied) law instead of history when she was in college.
Correct: Mary wishes that she (had studied) law instead of history when she was in college.

[OR]


Correct: Mary wishes that she (could have studied) law instead of history when she was in college.

[OR]


Correct: Mary wishes that she (would have studied) law instead of history when she was in college.

Incorrect: I wish that I (could meet) your father last night.
Correct: I wish that I (had met) your father last night.

[OR]

Correct: I wish that I (could have met) your father last night.

[OR]

Correct: I wish that I (would have met) your father last night.

Incorrect: I wish that the snow (will stop) soon.
Correct: I wish that the snow (would stop) soon.

Problems With Verbs (11): Conditions.

([If] [we] [find] [her address,] [we] [will] [write] her)

- (if): If
- (S): we
- (V[present]): Find
- ( , ): her address,
- (S): we
- (will): will
- (verb word): write
- her

[OR]

([We] [will] [write] her [if] [we] [find] her address)

- (S): we
- (will): will
- (verb word): write
- her
- (if): if
- (S): we
- (V[present]): find
- her address

Avoid using a present verb instead of will and a verb word.

([If] [we] [found] [her address,] [we] [would] [write] her)

- (if): If
- (S): we
- (V[past]): Found
- ( , ): her address,
- (S): we
- (would): would
- (verb word): write
- her

[OR]

([We] [would] [write] her [if] [we] [found] her address)

- (S): we
- (would): would
- (verb word): write
- her
- (if): if
- (S): we
- (V[past]): found
- her address

([If] [we] [had] [found] [her address,] [we] [would have] [written] her)

- (if): if
- (S): we
- (had): had
- (participle): found
- ( , ): her addres,
- (S): we
- (would have): would have
- (participle): written
- her

([If] [we] [had] [found] [her address,] [we] [could have] [written] her)

- (if): if
- (S): we
- (had): had
- (participle): found
- ( , ): her addres,
- (S): we
- (could have): could have
- (participle): written
- her

[OR]

([We] [would have] [written] her [if] [we] [had] [found] her address).

- (S): we
- (would have): would have
- (participle): written
- her
- (if): if
- (S): we
- (had): had
- (participle): found
- her address

([We] [could have] [written] her [if] [we] [had] [found] her address).

- (S): we
- (could have): could have
- (participle): written
- her
- (if): if
- (S): we
- (had): had
- (participle): found
- her address

Avoid using (would have) and a participle instead of (had) and a participle. Avoid using (have) as a participle.


Example:

Incorrect: (If you listen) to the questions carefully,( you answer) them easily.
Correct: (If you listen) to the questions carefully, (you will answer) them easily.

[OR]

Correct: (You will answer) them easily (if you listen) to the questions carefully.

Incorrect: (If we would have known) that she had planned to arrive today, (we could have me) her at the bus station.
Correct: (If we had known) that she had planned to arrive today, (we could have me) her at the bus station.

[OR]

Correct: (we could have met) her at the bus station (if we had known) that she had planned to arrive today.

Incorrect: (If you would go) to bed earlier, (you would not) be so sleepy in the morning.
Correct: (If you went) to bed earlier, (you wouldn't) be so sleepy in the morning.

[OR]

Correct: (You wouldn't be) so sleepy in the morning (if you went) to bed earlier.

Incorrect: (If i had have) more time, (I would have checked) my paper again.
Correct: (If i had had) more time, (I would have checked) my paper again.

[OR]

Correct: (I would have checked) my paper again (if I had had) more time.

Incorrect: (If we finished) our work a little early today, (we'll attend) the lecture at the art museum.
Correct: (If we finish) our work a little early today, (we'll attend) the lecture at the art museum.

[OR]

Correct: (We'll attend) the lecture at the art museum (if we finish) our work a little early today.

Problems With Verbs (10): Unfulfilled Desires in the Past.

([We] [had hoped] [that] [she] [would] [change] he mind.)

- (S): We
- (had hoped): had hoped
- (that): that
- (S): she
- (would): would
- (verb word): change
- her mind

Avoid using a verb word instead of (would) and a verb word. [Avoid using the incorrect pattern]:

([we] [had hoped] [her] [changing] her mind)

- (S): We
- (had hoped): had hoped
- (object pronoun): her
- (- ing form): changing
- her mind

Examples:

Incorrect: He had hoped (that he graduate) this semester, but he couldn't finish his thesis in time.
Correct: He had hoped (that he would graduate) this semester, but he couldn't finish his thesis in time.

Incorrect: We had hoped (him staying) longer.
Correct: We had hoped (that he would stay) longer.

Incorrect: They had hoped (that she not find out) about it.
Correct: They had hoped (that she would not find out) about it.

Incorrect: I had hoped (her coming) to the party.
Correct: I had hoped (that she would come) to the party.

Incorrect: His father had hoped (that he go) into business with him.
Correct: His father had hoped (that he would go) into business with him.

Problems With Verbs (9): Preference.

(I would rather drive)

- (S): I
- (would rather): would rather
- (Verb word): drive

( I would rather not drive)

- (S): I
- (would rather): would rather
- (not): not
- (Verb word): drive

Avoid using an infinitive or an (- ing) form instead of a verb word.

(I would rather that you drove)

- (S): I
- (would rather): would rather
- (that): that
- (S): you
- (V[past]): drove

Avoid using present verb or a verb word instead of a past verb. Avoid using (should) and a verb word instead of a past verb.

(I would rather that you didn't drive)

- (S): I
- (would rather): would rather
- (that): that
- (S): you
- (didn't): didn't
- (verb word): drive

Avoid using (don't) or (doesn't) instead of (didn't).

Examples:

Incorrect: (I'd rather that you don't do) that.
Correct: (I'd rather that you didn't do) that.

Incorrect: She told me that (she'd rather not to serve) on the committee.
Correct: she told me that (she'd rather not serve) on the committee.

Incorrect: If you don't mind, (I'd rather not going).
Correct: If you don't mind, (I'd rather not go).

Incorrect: He said that (he'd rather went) to a small college instead of to a large university.
Correct: He said that (he'd rather go) to a small college instead of to a large university.

Incorrect: (We'd rather that you should come) tomorrow.
Correct: (We'd rather that you came) tomorrow.

Problems With Verbs (8): Question Forms for Invitations and Customs.

([Would you like] [to watch] the news today?)

- (Would you like): Would you like
- (infinitive): to watch
- the news today?

Remember that (would like) means to want. It is used in a question form for an invitation. A specific date such as (today). Is usually included.

Avoid using (will) and (won't) instead of (would). Avoid using (do) instead of (would for invitations.

([Do you like] [to watch] the news every day?)

- (do you like): Do you like
- (infinitive): to watch
- the news every day?

Remember that (like) means to enjoy. It is used with (do) in a question form for asking about costoms. A word or phrase indicating habitual action such as (every day) is usually included.

Avoid using would instead of (do) for customs.

Examples:

Incorrect: (Do you like) to come to a party (on saturday) at the International House?
Correct: (Would you like) to come to a party (on saturday) at the International House?

Incorrect: (Won't you like) to go swimming with us (tomorrow)?
Correct: (Would you like) to go swimming with us (tomorrow)?

Incorrect: (Should you like) to have tea every (afternoon)?
Correct: (Do you like) to have tea every (afternoon)?

Incorrect: (Will you like) to go to the movies (this weekend)?
Correct: (Would you like) to go to the movies (this weekend)?

Incorrect: (Do you like) to have dinner with us (tonight)?
Correct: (Would you like) to have dinner with us (tonight)?

Problems With Verbs (7): Advisability.

([You] [had better] [take] chemistry 600 this semester)

- (S): You
- (had better): had better
- (verb word): take
- Chemistry 600 this semester

([You] [had better] [not] [take] Chemistry 600 this semester).

- (S): You
- (had better): had better
- (not): not
- (verb word): take
- chemistry 600 this semester


Remember that although (had) is a past form, it refers to future time in this pattern.

Avoid using an infinitive or a past form of a verb instead of a verb word. Avoid using (don't) instead of (not).


Examples:


Incorrect: You (had better to hurry) if you don't want to miss the bus.
Correct: You (had better hurry) if you don't want to miss the bus.

Incorrect: We (had better made) reservations so that we will be sure of getting a good table.
Correct: We (had better make) reservations so that we will be sure of getting a good table.

Incorrect: We (had better to check) the schedule.
Correct: We (had better check) the schedule.

Incorrect: You (had better don't quit) your job until you find another one.
Correct: You (had better not quit) your job until you find another one.

Incorrect: You (had better don't go) alone.
Correct: You (had better not go) alone.

Problems With Verbs (6): Logical Conclusions About Past Occurrences.

([My watch] [must have] [stopped] because it couldn't be two o'clock)

- (S): My watch
- (must have): must have
- (participle): stopped
-because it couldn't two o'clock

Remember that an observation in the present may serve as the basis for a conclusion about something which happened in the past. For example, ''it couldn't be two o'clock now.'' it may be concluded that ''my watch must have stopped in the past.''

Avoid using (should) or (can) instead of (must). Avoid using a verb word instead of (have) and a participle when referring to a past occurrence.

Example:

Incorrect: The streets are wet; it (should have rained).
Correct: The streets are wet; it (must have rained)

Incorrect: The light (is) out in her room; she (must go) to bed.
Correct: The light (is) out in her room; she (must have gone) to bed.

Incorrect: This pen (won't) write; it (can have run out) of ink
Correct: This pen (won't) write; it (must have run out) of ink.

Incorrect: The line was busy; someone (must be using) the telephone.
Correct: The line was busy; someone (must have been using) the telephone.

Incorrect: Hery was absent last week; he (must be) sick.
Correct: Hery was absent last week; he (must have been) sick.

Problems With Verbs (5): Past custom

([He] [used to] [live] in the country)

- (S): He
- (used to): used to
- (verb word): live
- in the country

Avoid using a form of (be) after the subject. Avoid using the incorrect form (use to).

([He] [was] [used to] [living] in the country)

- (S): He
- (BE): was
- (used to): used to
- (- ing form): living
- in the country

Avoid using a form of (be) after (used to). Avoid using a verb word instead of an (- ing) form. Avoid using the incorrect form use to.

Examples:

Incorrect: I (used to was studying) at the University of Southern California before I transferred here.
Correct: I (used to study) at the University of Southern California before I transferred here.

[OR]

I (was used to studying) at the University of Southern California before I transferred here.

Incorrect: We (use to go) to the movies quite frequently.
Correct: We (used to go) to the movies quite frequently.

[OR]

Correct: We (were used to going) to the movies quite frequently.

Incorrect: She (was used to get) up early.
Correct: She (used to get) up early.

[OR]

Correct: She (was used to getting up early.

Incorrect: He (was used to drink) too much.
Correct: He (used to drink) too much.

[OR]

He (was used to drinking) too much.

Incorrect: She (used to speaking) in public.
Correct: She (used to speak) in public.

[OR]

Correct: She (was used to speaking) in public.

Problems With Verbs (4): Ability

(I know the answers)

- (S): I
- (KNOW): Know
- (noun): the answers

Avoid using an infinitive after (know).

(I know how to answer the question)

Remember that (how) must be used with an infinitive.

Examples:

Incorrect: If she (knew to drive), he would lend her his car.
Correct: If she (knew how to drive), he would lend her his car.

Incorrect: I don't (know to use) the card catalog in the library.
Correct: I don't (know how to use) the card catalog in the library.

Incorrect: Until he came to the United States to study, he didn't (know to cook).
Correct: Until he came to the United States to study, he didn't ( know how to cook).

Incorrect: Do you (know to type)?
Correct: Do you (know how to type)?

Incorrect: You'll have to help her because she doesn't (know to do)it.
Correct: You'll have to help her because she doesn't ( know how to do) it.

Problems With Verbs (3): Necessity, Usually for Repair or Improvement.

(This paragraph needs revising)

- (S): This paragraph
- (NEED): needs
- (- ing form): revising

Avoid using an infinitive or a participle instead of an (- ing) form.

[OR]

(This paragraph to be revised)

- (S): This paragraph
- (NEED): needs
- (to be): to be
- (participle): revised

Avoid using an (- ing) form instead of a participle.

Examples:

Incorrect: His car needs (to fix).
Correct: His car needs (fixing).

[OR]

Correct: His car needs (to be fixed)

Incorrect: The rug needs (cleaned) before we move in.
Correct: The rug needs (cleaning) before we move in.

[OR]

Correct: The rug needs (to be cleaned) before we move in.

Incorrect: The house needs (to paint), but we plan to wait until next summer to do it.
Correct: The house needs (painting), but we plan to wait until next summer to do it.

[OR]

Correct: The house needs (to be painted), but we plan to wait until next summer to do it.

Incorrect: Her watch needed (repaired).
Correct: Her watch needed (repairing)

[OR]

Her watch needed (to be repaired)

Incorrect: The hem of this dress needs (mended) before i wear it again.
Correct: The hem of this dress needs (mending) before i wear it again.

[OR]

The hen of this dress needs (to be mended) before i wear it again.

Problems With Verbs (2): Participles.

(The concert [had] [begun] before we could find our seats)

- The concert
- (HAVE): had
- (participle): begun
- before we could find our seats

Remember that the participles of the following verbs are not the same as the past forms.
Avoid using a past form instead of a participle with (have), (has), (had), or (having).

Verb Word:

- begin
- come
- drink
- fall
- give
- know
- run
- see
- speak
- steal
- take
- tear
- go
- wear
- write

Past Form:

- began
- came
- chose
- drank
- fell
- gave
- knew
- ran
- saw
- spoke
- stole
- took
- tore
- went
- wore
- wrote

Participle:

- begun
- come
- chosen
- drunk
- fallen
- given
- known
- run
- seen
- spoken
- stolen
- taken
- torn
- gone
- worn
- written


Examples:


Incorrect: Someone (had) broken into the office and (stole) the files
Correct: Someone (had) broken into the office and (stolen) the files.

Incorrect: Her advisor was pleased witg the topic which she (had chose) for her thesis.
Correct: Her advisor was pleased with the topic which she (had chosen) for her thesis.

Incorrect: (Having) eaten and (drank) too much the night before, he woke up with a headache.
Correct: (Having) eaten and (drunk) too much the night before, he woke up with a headache.

Incorrect: Although he (had ran) as fast as he could, he only placed fourth in the race.
Correct: Although he (had run) as fast as he could, he only placed fourth in the race.

Incorrect: (Having wrote) five successful novels, she published a collection of short stories.
Correct: (Having written) five succesful novels, she published a collection of short stories.

Problems With Verbs (1): Verbs that require an infinitive or an (- ing) form in the complement

(We had planned to leave day before yesterday)

SYMBOLS ABBREVIATIONS:

- (S): We
- (V): had planned
- (C): to leave
- (M): day before yesterday

Remember that the following verbs require an infinitive in the complement:

- agree
- decide
- expect
- fail
- hope
- intend
- learn
- plan
- promise
- refuse
- want

Avoid using an (- ing) form after the verbs listed. Avoid using a verb word after want.

(He enjoys traveling by plane).

- (S): He
- (V): enjoys
- (C): traveling
- (M): by plane

Remember that the following verbs require an (- ing) form in the complement:

- admit
- appreciate
- avoid
- consider
- deny
- enjoy
- finish
- practice
- quit
- regret
- risk
- stop

Avoid using an infinitive after the verbs listed.
(Forbid) may be used with either an infinitive or an (- ing) complemen, but (forbid from) is not idiomatic.

(She forgot about canceling her appointment).

- (S): She
- (VPh): forgot about
- (C): canceling
- (M): her appointment

Remember that following verb phrases require an (- ing) form in the.
complement:

- approve of
- be better off
- can't help
- count on
- do not mind
- forget about
- get through
- insist on
- keep on
- look forward to
- object to
- think about
- think of

Avoid using an infinitive after the verb phrases listed. Avoid using a verb word after (look forward to) and (object to).

Examples:

Incorrect: She is cosidering not (to go).
Correct: She is considering not (going).

Incorrect: He wanted (speak) with Mr.Hery.
Correct: He wanted (to speak) with Mr.Hery.

Incorrect: His Mother forbids him (from staying) out late on school nights.
Correct: His Mother forbids him (to stay) out late on school nights.

Incorrect: I have been looking forward to (meet) you.
Correct: I have been looking forward to (meeting) you.

Incorrect: We wouldn't mind (to wait).
Correct: We wouldn't mind waiting.

Toefl Symbols

(Abbreviations)

An abbreviation is a shortened form. In the patterns, there are five abbreviations used.

(S) is an abbreviation for Subject.

(V) is an abbreviation for Verb.

(VPh) is an abbreviation for Verb Phrase.

(C) is an abbreviation for Complement.

(M) is an abbrevition for Modifier.

(Small Letters)

Small letters are lower-case letters. In the patterns, a verb written in small letters may not change form. For example, the verb (have) may not change to (has) or (had) when it is written in small letters.

(Capital Letters)

Capital letters are upper-case letters. In the patterns, a verb written in capital letters may change form. For example, the verb (HAVE) may remain as (have), or may change to (has) or (had), depending upon agreement with the subject and choice of tense.

(Parentheses)

Parentheses are curved lines used as punctuation marks. The following marks are parentheses: ( ). In the patterns, the words in parenthese give specific information about the abbreviation or word which precedes them. For example, V (present) means that the verb in the pattern must be a present verb. Noun (count) means that the noun in the pattern must be a countable noun.

(Alternative).

Alternatives are different ways to express the same idea. In the patterns, alternatives are written. For example, in the following pattern, there are three alternatives:

(Had)
(Would have): ---->Participle
(Could have)



The alternative are had, would have, and could have. Any one of the alternative may be used with the participle. All three alternatives are correct.

PATTERNS

- Problems with Verbs
- Problems with Pronouns
- Problems with Nouns
- Problems with Modifiers
- Problems with Comparatives
- Problems with Connectors

STYLE

- Problems with Point of View
- Problems with Agreement
- Problems with Introductory Verbal Modifiers
- Problems with Parallel Structure
- Problems with Wordiness
- Problems with Word Choice

Review of structure and written expression

The patterns and rules of style in the review of structure and written expression section of the TOEFL.

In order for you to use the patterns and rules of style in this review,you musu understand two definitions and five symbols.

DEFINITIONS

A Modal. A modal is any one of the following words: can,could,may,might,shall,should,will,would,must.

A Verb Word. A verb word is the verb form which you find in your dictionary. It is the infinitive form of any verb without the word (to). The following words are examples of verb words: be,do,go,have,like,speak,study,write