THE ancient notion of English grammar was one of certain categories of words, and certain rules for their proper use. This is still the idea implied in most of the dictionary definitions of the word.

The Oxford comma. “Ask” instead of “aks.” There, their, and they’re. The legitimacy of “ain’t” and “y’all.” These are familiar, if sometimes contentious, issues in the usage of the English language.

Today, March 4, is National Grammar Day: an occasion, the NGD website tells us, to “celebrate good grammar in both our written and spoken communication.” Since I am a linguist and get my quotidian ...

English grammar is the foundation of effective communication, and understanding its basic rules is essential for beginners. Whether you're just starting to learn English or looking to strengthen your ...

Ellen Jovin is not the grammar police. She's more like a grammar guru, a gentle, nonjudgmental guide who knows English isn't etched into a linguistic stone, rigid and unchangeable. Instead, she knows ...

November 12, 2010 Add as a preferred source on Google Add as a preferred source on Google Though some might treat grammar as dead serious business, that's not a particularly fun way to learn it. Brush ...

IS AMERICA RUINING English or giving it new life? Most of this old transatlantic debate concerns words. Is elevator an improvement on lift? Why say transportation when transport will do? Sometimes it ...