Using “want” is always direct and sometimes impolite (rude). You won’t (or shouldn’t) hear “want” in retail. For example, “Would you like cream in your coffee?” rather than “Do you want cream?” When using want in the negative, for example “I don’t want cream”, you can usually just say, “no thanks.” But, in the situation,… Continue reading Understanding nuance: Replace “want” with “would like”
Solve or Resolve?
I was asked what the difference was between solve and resolve. Do you solve or resolve the question 34 x 65=? There is only one correct answer, so you solve it. In XYZ CO., Tim is always late for work for various reasons. There is more than one correct way to fix the problem, so… Continue reading Solve or Resolve?
Verb / Subject agreement, aaaugh!
One common error when trying to get your verb / subject agreement right is when using singular/plural and countable/uncountable nouns, such as in the following example. The Government (uncountable) doesn’t / don’t mind deficits. But, (always a “but”), a team is made up of many players (and has an S) so it is plural: The… Continue reading Verb / Subject agreement, aaaugh!
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