Jenny’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. […]
Terry’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 […]
Phil’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 […]
We 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 […]
Dee’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 […]
Rob’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 […]
Gigi’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 […]
Candice’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 […]
Grant’s question: “When does one place the apostrophe before the ‘s’ and when is it placed after the ‘s’?” BizWritingTip response: An apostrophe with a noun indicates both possession and the number involved. In other words, if the apostrophe is placed inside the “s,” there is only one item that possesses something. If the apostrophe […]
Be Your Boss’ Boss I was on the Go Train last week and cringed to see this slogan on a poster from a well known association. It’s a grammatical error. When you make a one-syllable word ending in “s,” “x,” or “z” possessive, you must add an apostrophe plus an additional “s.” Examples (correct – one-syllable […]