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Hoa Thai Posted 18 years ago
Grammar

He is sad, angry, and needing peace.

Hi,

Could we ignore the grammatical error of the sbject sentence for compactness?

Thanks,
Hoa Thai
  

Top answer

I don't think so, Hoa Thai-- but it may be just because the phrase 'needing peace' sounds a little odd. Actually, I don't think it is really a grammatical error; it is a rhetorical device often used by writers. Try: He is sad, angry, and in need of (a little) peace (and quiet).

— Mister Micawber

  • I don't think so, Hoa Thai-- but it may be just because the phrase 'needing peace' sounds a little odd.
  • Actually, I don't think it is really a grammatical error; it is a rhetorical device often used by writers.
  • Try: He is sad, angry, and in need of (a little) peace (and quiet).
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4 Answers
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I don't think so, Hoa Thai-- but it may be just because the phrase 'needing peace' sounds a little odd. Actually, I don't think it is really a grammatical error; it is a rhetorical device often used by writers. Try: He is sad, angry, and in need of (a little) peace (and quiet).

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I thought 'is' was being forced to carry a double duty. In the first construction, it is a linking verb - but in the second construction, it is an auxiliary verb. Hence, the entire sentence is grammatically questionable.

Thanks,
Hoa Thai
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I can see that it might be awkward sometimes, but calling it incorrect is. I think, overly prescriptive. Certainly it can be used to good effect: He was ill and seeking medical attention. I am in China and loving every minute of it.
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