Good grammar is not about "smarts"; it's about training. Some people didn't get adequate training during their formative years, so they don't have the grammar skills that they desire.I honestly don't know how I feel about this, because of what happened in a couple of threads where some members criticism others inculde myself because of our English grammar and writing skills, and part of me feels like I'm not good enough or smart enough like the rest of you folks...
I honestly don't know how I feel about this, because of what happened in a couple of threads where some members criticism others inculde myself because of our English grammar and writing skills, and part of me feels like I'm not good enough or smart enough like the rest of you folks...
Did she get banned again? I haven't seen here here for a while...
Angel: I understand 100%. Before I read AD and not post because so many threads about people's bad grammar. Then I post but was SO concerned about writing - I used Word grammar/spell check and my hearing roommate to read so no mistakes. The posts criticizing people's writing made me sick - like a giant bad English class and not a community to me and I think I am not good enough also. Now all is too much work and worry for me. I give up and be lazy :P
People are rude to correct grammar and spelling without the writer asked for help I think. But the new section or sub-section is for people to ask for help and not anyone just criticizing (or I hope). Probably it needs very careful moderator. But maybe one positive is people could say in other parts of AD about criticizing posts "if you want to help with grammar or spelling, help with posts in the Grammar/Spelling Section (or whatever the name) and not just criticize everywhere". I hope so.
Did she get banned again? I haven't seen here here for a while...
Liebling's explanation is spot on. We've seen posts by “unofficial English coaches” and many worse instances of misplaced arrogance and one-upmanship. It’s not a wonderful thing but pretty much par for the course in a group so international and with such ranges in age, education, and circumstances.
I’ve lived with the stereotype of the English teacher ready to pounce on the slightest error. I never correct outside class, editing I’m paid for, or specific requests. Yet even my own mom was afraid to write me letters in fear I’d grade them. It’s hilarious, because in my experience, all self-styled “grammar police” are non-professionals--wanna-be English teachers who are actually little more than low-grade bullies trying to own the playground.
They’re everywhere and nothing will stop them from posting misguided (and, as Leibling says, often incorrect) advice, sometimes followed by paragraphs of copied grammar texts with much more general info than you ever wanted to know or can wade through.
You can bet “Cronan, the Grammarian, killer of all expression” will post in this new section, but the difference will be that someone has asked for specific information, and there are enough members who will recognize unhelpful advice and be able to suggest something more helpful.
It’s true not many will use this new section. The old saying is, “You can always tell a writer bent on publishing . . . but you sure can’t tell him much” ha ha ha.
However, I think this forum may tone down the free advice in other sections and offer a place for those who would really like an educational discussion.
Will I be banned for talking about banned?