Common Errors in Writing ( part 4 )

Slash :

A slash ( / ) can be used as "either or " when the choice is between "and" and "or." Say : "She is bringing chocolates and / or wine." Do not use the slash, however to make the same statement about nouns ( do not say chocolates / wine ) or in other places where the two concepts are interchangeable.

Substantive and Substantial :

Do not say substantive when you mean substantial. Substantial refers to a large amount. Enough or more than enough for the purpose. Substantive refers to content, in contrast to form or superficial characteristics.

Upholding and Holding Up :

When you uphold something, you support and help to maintain it. When you hold something up, you hinder it or prohibit it from continuing or developing.

Unique :

The word "unique" means "one of a kind." There can only be one of that kind. This is an either / or situation; either something is unique or it is not. It can not be more or less.

That means something can not be "more" unique than something else. It is like being pregnant ; either you are or you are not ; you can not be just a little bit pregnant, or less pregnant than Isobel.

Their, There and They're

"Their" is an adjective. It describes something that belongs to them. "There" is a place; further away from here. "They're" is a contraction for "they are."

Should of :

The phrase "should of " is wrong. It must be "should have."


Source : www.scn.org/cmp/errors.htm