Here is a compilation of tidbits that didn’t quite warrant their own blog post, but are interesting enough to share.
- Is it wreck havoc or wreak havoc? According to the online Merriam-Webster Dictionary, wreck means “a vehicle, airplane, etc., that has been badly damaged or destroyed; a ruined or destroyed ship; an accident in which a car, airplane, train, etc., is badly damaged or destroyed.” On the other hand, wreak means “to cause (something very harmful or damaging)” and “bring about, cause <wreak havoc>.” So the correct phrase is to wreak havoc.
- Personal pronouns like myself, himself, herself, etc. can ONLY be used in certain circumstances:
- to reflect back to the subject – I found myself craving a nap on my day off.
- to emphasize a noun or a pronoun that has already been expressed – The secretaries themselves did all the work for the buffet.
- Do NOT use a compound personal pronoun unless the noun or pronoun to which it refers is in the same sentence.
- The reservations are for the Smiths and myself. (There is nothing for myself to refer back to here, so it should say “the Smiths and me.”)
- John and myself can meet on Tuesday. (It should be “John and I can meet on Tuesday.”)
- Family terms using the prefix great or the suffix in-law should always be hyphenated. However, terms involving step or grand are kept solid.
- My great-grandmother lived in Arkansas.
- John’s son-in-law wanted to move his family to Alaska.
- I love being a grandmother.
- Sara’s stepchildren are a blessing in her life.
Pretty quick, huh? I hope you learned a little something. Remember to email any topics you would like to see covered to [email protected]!
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