Joanna’s question: “When do you use ‘among’ and when do you use ‘between’?” BizWritingTip response: The basic rule is to use between when referring to two persons or things andamong when you are referring to more than two. Examples I divided the workload between Gerry and Susan. I divided the workload between the two new staff members. I divided the workload among Gerry, Susan, and […]
Word Choice – Between Versus Among
in -Latest, Feature Article, Word ChoiceJoanna’s question: “When do you use ‘among’ and when do you use ‘between’?” BizWritingTip response: The basic rule is to use between when referring to two persons or things andamong when you are referring to more than two. Examples I divided the workload between Gerry and Susan. I divided the workload between the two new staff members. I divided the workload among Gerry, Susan, and […]
Word Choice – Plead Versus Pled
in -Latest, Feature Article, Word ChoiceKelly’s question: “Can you please comment on ‘plead’ versus ‘pled’?” BizWritingTip response: According to the Oxford dictionary, to plead is to “make an earnest appeal; to maintain (a cause) esp. in a law court.” Example She will plead not guilty of the charges. The past tense of plead is either pled or pleaded. Pled is American English and pleaded is British English. Examples She pleaded guilty of the charges […]
Grammar Tip – Apostrophes With Family Names
in -Latest, Feature Article, GrammarJenny’s question: “Would you please comment on the use of apostrophes in names on plaques outside family homes. I see many of these signs that use the family name with an apostrophe as in The Wilson’s. Is this correct? This usage makes me think that the house belongs to The Wilson.” BizWritingTip response: You are absolutely right. The Wilson’s is wrong. […]
Word Choice – Per Cent Versus Percentage
in -Latest, Feature Article, Word ChoiceTerry’s question: “I am wondering about the use of per cent and percentage. For instance, should it be ‘Early Development Instrument: Percent Vulnerable by Domain’ or should it be ‘Percentage Vulnerable by Domain’?” BizWritingTip response: According to the AMA Manual of Style, deciding on whether to use per cent or percentage is simple. “The term […]
Word Choice – As Versus Because
in -Latest, Feature Article, Word ChoicePhil’s question: “I often find sentences written like this ‘project delivery will not proceed as there has been no approval to date.’ It bothers me because I would expect to read ‘project delivery will not proceed because there has been no approval to date.’ Which form is more acceptable or correct.” BizWritingTip response: As, since, and because are used to […]
Nonsensical Notes for the Holiday Season
in -Latest, Feature ArticleWe always like to end the year with a little fun. Here are some statements that may make your eyes roll. I did a theatrical performance about puns. It was a play on words. I used to think I was indecisive, but now I’m not so sure. I stayed up all night to see where […]
Word Choice – Coordinate Versus Facilitate
in -Latest, Feature Article, Word ChoiceDee’s question: “Please provide some examples on the proper usage of the words ‘facilitates’ and ‘coordinates.’ ” BizWritingTip response: “To facilitate” means to make something easier or less difficult. It also involves assisting or leading people to arrive at an understanding. Example He was hired to facilitate a panel discussion on the economy. (He will […]
Word Choice – Last Versus Latest
in -Latest, Feature Article, Word ChoiceRob’s question: “I just received an email saying that the attachment was the ‘last update on the project.’ As the project will continue for six more months is this correct?” BizWritingTip response: “The last update” implies you are receiving the final update on the project. You will not be receiving anything else. The sender should have […]
Word Choice – As Of Versus As At
in -Latest, Feature Article, Word ChoiceGigi’s question: “I would like to know the difference between ‘as at’ and ‘as of.’ ” BizWritingTip response: As of is used to indicate a time or date at which something begins or ends. Although precise, it sounds rather formal. Example The project was terminated as of January 1. (Less formal: The project has been terminated since January 1.) You […]
Word Choice – Overblown Language
in -Latest, Feature Article, Word ChoiceCandice’s question: “In my office, several people are now saying and writing ‘My ask of you is…’ when they are requesting action. Is this correct? It seems to me it should be “May I ask you to…?” BizWritingTip response: Wow! This statement is funny and is also wrong in many ways. First, it comes across as […]