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Category Archives: Uncategorized
How to use apostrophes
An apostrophe is one of these: ’ It is NOT one of these: ‘ That is an inverted comma (or quotation mark/speech mark), which is used for opening quotations. ’ is also used to close a quotation, in which case … Continue reading
The difference between “ask” and “request”
These words have similar meanings, but they are used a little differently. Usage as verbs “Request” means “ask for”, NOT “ask”. You “ask a question”, but you can’t “request a question”. E.g.: WRONG He requested whether I’d read the email. … Continue reading
How to use the word “holiday”
WRONG I am currently on holidays. He is on his holidays now and will be returning to the office next week. RIGHT I am currently on holiday. He is on holiday now and will be returning to the office next … Continue reading
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Tagged Adjectives, British/US English, Nouns, Useful everyday phrases, Verbs
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“If I were you…” – the subjunctive mood
Many people seem to worry about the subjunctive. But you really don’t need to. I’ll tell you why later on, but for the moment let’s have a look at what the subjunctive is. Consider the following sentences: “If I were … Continue reading
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Example voicemail messages
Standard messages Hi. You’ve reached [company name]. Please leave your name, number and a brief message after the tone and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Hi. You have reached [company name]. I’m sorry that no one … Continue reading
How to talk on the phone
Here are a few examples of phrases commonly used in telephone conversations. Obviously the people’s names and the company name are invented. Introducing yourself If an assistant answers the phone: They say: Good morning, Company X, How can I help you? … Continue reading
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Tagged British/US English, polite expressions, Useful everyday phrases
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How to use “provided that”
The phrase “provided that” has numerous possible meanings, which can result in ambiguity if it is not used properly. First of all, “provided that” can simply be a verb + conjunction combination. This is a common structure in legal … Continue reading
How to use “provide for”
“Provide for” can be a phrasal verb or simply a verb + preposition combination. Here are some examples of “provide for” as a verb + preposition combination: I will provide the wine for the meal. We care about the service … Continue reading
The difference between “arrange” and “arrange for”
We use “arrange for” when we talk about making arrangements, often when we ask someone else to deal with something, e.g.: Please arrange for the issuance of a new invoice. (I don’t expect you to do it yourself – ask … Continue reading
The difference between “principal” and “principle”
These words are pronounced the same way, but their meanings are different. “Principal” can be an adjective and a noun. It is most commonly used as an adjective, meaning “main” or “most important”: Her principal area of responsibility is economic … Continue reading
Common Mistakes in Business English 