It’s Alive—or Is It? Using the Relative Pronouns Who and That
Learn when to use the relative pronouns who and that Read More
Posts related to word choice
Five Common Grammar Questions
An MLA editor addresses five common grammar questions Read More
Me, Myself, or I? Using Pronouns Ending in -Self
Pronouns ending with -self are often used incorrectly. This post explains how to use them. Read More
Versus or Against?
Writers often misuse the term versus Read More
On Words: Michael Chabon’s “Ulysses on Trial”
Words should suit the context and purpose of a piece of writing Read More
Impact as a Verb
The MLA recommends restricting the use of impact as a verb . . . Read More
This Can Be Confusing
Chances are, you've begun many sentences with This Read More
How does the MLA use emeritus and emerita?
In its publications the MLA follows Merriam-Webster, allowing the inflected forms emeritus to refer to a man or woman, emerita to refer to a woman, and emeriti… Read More
When I use too in the sense of “also,” should I use a comma before it?
In most cases, you need not use a comma before too at the end of a sentence or commas around it midsentence: She likes chocolate chip… Read More
How do I style percentages?
The general guideline is to use the percentage symbol with numerals and to use the word percent with spelled-out numbers. In statistical copy that calls… Read More