I'm obsessed with this book. The illustrations are fantastic, but my infatuation comes from its dense content. My diction can be crap, my punctuation is embarrassing and this little gem is an esthetically appealing rule book and tool.
I'm certain chapter number four is my favorite. With this opener,
Many of the words and expressions listed here are not so much bad English as bad style, the commonplaces of careless writing...
I knew I was in for a treat. Listed here are a few of my favorites to date:
- One. In the sense of 'a person,' not to be followed by his or her. One must watch his step. One must watch one's step.
- Secondly, thirdly, etc. Unless you are prepared to begin with firstly and defend it (which will be difficult), do not prettify numbers with -ly. Modern usage prefers second, third, and so on.
- So. Avoid, in writing, the use of so as an intensifier: 'so good'; 'so warm'; 'so delightful.'
- The truth is...The fact is... A bad beginning for a sentence. If you feel you are possessed of the truth, or a of a fact, simply state it. Do not give it advance billing. (must stop doing this.)
- Very. Use this word sparingly. Where emphasis is necessary, use words strong in themselves. (again, note to self.)
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