What Is Inflection in English Grammar?
In this excerpt from the Intermediate Cozy Grammar Course, Marie introduces the concept of inflection, complete with examples. Remember, inflection means change.
Grammar is important to me | Where should I start?
Adalynn L. writes, “I’m going into 7th grade. Grammar is very important to me. Where should I start?” Here is some clear and useful guidance from Thomas.
A poem on when—and when not—to take action
Thomas shares a verse from his new translation of the classical Tamil masterpiece on ethics, power, and love, The Kural: Tiruvalluvar’s Tirukkural, published by Beacon Press.
Should we say “It is I” or “It is me”?
A student recently asked whether it is correct to say “it’s me” or “it’s I.” As Thomas explains, both are right but for different reasons.
Problems with Subject Verb Agreement
George S. asks, “How do I figure out which verb to use in a sentence like this: This is one of those situations that drive or drives me crazy?” Here is the secret to tricky SAT and TOEFL questions on verb agreement.
What are Plural Verbs?
One of the key concepts of grammar is agreement of verbs. That may sound awfully technical, but as Marie shows in these two excerpts from the Basic Cozy Grammar Course, we make verbs agree all the time!
The rewards of patience
Here’s a thought nugget from Thomas on where all the seemingly endless details of grammar can ultimately lead you, with the help of Sarah the Herrerasaurus!
A poem on the two uses of wealth
Thomas shares a verse from his new translation of the classical Tamil masterpiece on ethics, power, and love, The Kural: Tiruvalluvar’s Tirukkural, published by Beacon Press.
How to remember what a compound sentence is
Here’s a simple but powerful way to remember what a compound sentence is. Take a peek at this video from Thomas.
When to Use After or Afterwards?
Pablo R. asks, “How do you know when to use after or afterwards?” Here’s a way to tell the difference between them and also the word afterward.
A poem on strangers and openness
Thomas shares a verse from his new translation of the classical Tamil masterpiece on ethics, power, and love, The Kural: Tiruvalluvar’s Tirukkural, published by Beacon Press.
Do We Say “One Of Those Who Is” or “One Of Those Who Are?”
When we use the phrase “one of those who,” do we say “one of those who ARE” or “one of those who IS”? How are they different?
What Are Auxiliary or Helping Verbs?
One of my favorite kinds of verbs are helping verbs (also known as auxiliary verbs). As the name suggests, helping verbs help—they help other verbs, known as principal verbs, to do their job.
Why foundations matter
Here’s a thought nugget from Thomas on why foundations are so important in language. If your foundation is sound, you can build any building your heart desires.
What is the Difference between Literally and Figuratively?
Ezane H. asks, “What is the difference between figurative and literally, metaphorically? Does literally also mean figuratively? How do you use it in a sentence?” Take a peek at this answer from Thomas
Can you end a sentence with a preposition?
Sometimes people teach that you can’t end a sentence with a preposition in English, but as Thomas explains, this simply isn’t true. Here’s why!