–MODIFIERS–
Avoid Illogical or Unclear Comparisons “Ellie is more disorganized than any woman” is an illogical statement. It implies that Ellie, who is a woman, is more disorganized than herself. Always include the words other or else to keep your comparisons from being illogical. Ellie is more disorganized than any other woman. Ted can concentrate better than anyone else in our division.
Avoid Double Comparisons A double comparison occurs when a writer uses both-er or-est and more or most. The following table provides examples of common mistakes and how to correct them. DOUBLE COMPARISONS WRONG
CORRECT
Diane is the most friendliest person I know.
Diane is the friendliest person I know.
Judi is less sleepier than I am.
Judi is less sleepy than I am.
The writing in this sample seems more plainer
The writing in this sample seems plainer than
than the writing in the other sample.
the writing in the other sample.
Avoid Double Negatives When a negative word is added to a statement that is already negative, a double negative results. Avoid double negatives in your writing. The words hardly and barely can cause problems; they function as negative words. In the following example sentences, the negative words are highlighted. Pay close attention to how the incorrect sentences are rewritten to avoid the double negative. DOUBLE NEGATIVES WRONG
CORRECT
The warehouse doesn’t have no surplus stock
The warehouse has no surplus stock at this time.
at this time.
The warehouse doesn’t have any surplus stock at this time.
I can’t hardly understand this financial report.
I can hardly understand this financial report. I can’t understand this financial report.
The cash on hand won’t barely cover this expense.
The cash on hand will barely cover this expense. The cash on hand won’t cover this expense.
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