Grammar

Question

What is being taught in public school now?  Is proper grammar considered a no-no because using it would make others feel uncomfortable?  If I hear "where he's at" one more time... yes I may "go postal."    CK

Clive · Accepted Answer

Hi,

I don't know where you live, but here in Canada I think there's some truth to that.

I think one factor is the decision by educators to focus on boosting self-esteem in students.

My neighbour is a professor. He told me about a colleague who corrected an undergaduate's spelling by saying 'We don't spell it that way'. She said 'Oh, that's how I spell it'.

On th other hand, probably the older generation has always complained like this about the younger one, yet life goes on and we seem to survive.

Best wishes, Clive

Avangi · Answer

My mother spoke perfect English, but used to sing a song from the 30's (We Just Couldn't Say Goodbye). I remember the line, The dog and cat, they don't know where they're at,

(I know you just offered that as an example!)

poetic license

Mr Wordy · Answer

Also, I think we all have our own little pet hates. "where he's at" doesn't annoy me greatly, whereas "the problem is, is that", and similar redundant repetitions of "is", which seem to have become near universal in the past few years, drive me absolutely nuts. For somebody else it might be the other way around.

Mister Micawber · Answer

I'm already postal.  There are warrants out for my arrest in seven states, two territories and a protectorate.  That's where I'm at.

Mister Micawber · Answer

... which reminds me of my dream last night.  I was trying to teach everyone the word 'nanent', but the thing is, is nobody would listen.  I'm being serious.  Where would I get the word 'nanent'?!

Avangi · Answer

Mr Wordy whereas "the problem is, is that", and similar redundant repetitions of "is",

As a great American famously said, not that many years ago, "It all depends what your definition of 'is' is."

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