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DC Foster Posted 10 years ago
Grammar
No 'and' before 'etc.' when listing
I have a student who likes use 'etc'. when listing instead of using commas and finishing with 'and'.
For example, "In that job I learned so many things. I learned how to manage my time, how to deal with customers, how to be patient in different situations etc."
My question is, should 'and' be included before the last item and then et. removed? Or is this okay as it stands?
Thanks.
For example, "In that job I learned so many things. I learned how to manage my time, how to deal with customers, how to be patient in different situations etc."
My question is, should 'and' be included before the last item and then et. removed? Or is this okay as it stands?
Thanks.
Top answer
' when listing instead of using commas and finishing with 'and'. DC Foster For example, "In that jo b, I learned so many things. " removed?
- ' when listing instead of using commas and finishing with 'and'.
- DC Foster For example, "In that jo b, I learned so many things.
- " removed?
- Not if that list isn't the full one.
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2 Answers
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DC Foster I have a student who likes using 'etc.' when listing instead of using commas and finishing with 'and'.
DC FosterFor example, "In that job, I learned so many things. I learned how to manage my time, how to deal with customers, how to be patient in different si
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Students should be discouraged from using "etc." in formal writing.
The reason is that it shows incomplete thinking and a lack of confidence.
"Etc." means that the writer expects the reader to do the mental work of completing their list.
If they use "etc." consistently, they give the impression of a lazy, rushed writer.
A CV with "Etc."s has a high likelihood of being discar
The reason is that it shows incomplete thinking and a lack of confidence.
"Etc." means that the writer expects the reader to do the mental work of completing their list.
If they use "etc." consistently, they give the impression of a lazy, rushed writer.
A CV with "Etc."s has a high likelihood of being discar
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