🚫 DON'T MAKE THESE GRAMMAR MISTAKES THAT EVEN NATIVE SPEAKERS MAKE

Interactive English

17 Jan 202431:35

EducationalLearning

32 Likes 10 Comments

TLDRIn this educational video, the speaker, Wes from Interactive English, addresses common grammar mistakes even native English speakers make, emphasizing the normalcy of errors in language learning. He discusses seven specific mistakes, including double negatives, incorrect use of 'less' vs. 'fewer', the misuse of 'irregardless', 'gonna', and 'bigly', incomplete comparatives, and confusion between 'I' and 'me'. Wes encourages viewers to learn from mistakes, highlighting the importance of understanding rather than fearing them in the pursuit of language fluency.

Takeaways

😀 It's completely normal to make mistakes when learning a language, including English, and it's important to learn from them rather than focusing solely on being perfect.
📚 The video discusses common grammar mistakes even native English speakers make, emphasizing that everyone can learn from these errors.
🙌 The first mistake highlighted is the use of double negatives, which can create confusion and should be avoided for clear communication.
🎶 Examples of double negatives are often found in music and casual speech, but understanding their impact on meaning is crucial for English learners.
🛒 The misuse of 'less' versus 'fewer' is a frequent error, with 'fewer' being appropriate for countable nouns and 'less' for uncountable nouns.
🗳️ The word 'irregardless' is technically incorrect as it's a double negative but is increasingly recognized and used in casual speech.
📝 The abbreviation 'IE' is incorrectly used in the script; 'e.g.' (exempli gratia) is for listing examples, while 'i.e.' (id est) is for clarifying or rephrasing a statement.
🤔 The words 'gonna' and 'bigly' are informal and can be seen as grammatical errors in formal writing, though they are used in spoken English and sometimes accepted in casual writing.
✍️ When using comparative adjectives, it's important to use the correct form (e.g., 'spicier' instead of 'more spicy') to convey the intended meaning accurately.
👥 The subject pronoun 'I' should be used when the pronoun is the subject of a sentence, and 'me' should be used when it is the object, which is a common point of confusion.
📝 Incomplete comparative sentences, like 'I ate more,' are errors that should be completed with 'than' to make a proper comparison.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video script?
-The main purpose of the video script is to discuss common grammar mistakes made by both native and non-native English speakers, and to encourage learners to not fear making mistakes as it's a natural part of the language learning process.
Why does the speaker emphasize that making mistakes is okay?
-The speaker emphasizes that making mistakes is okay because it is a normal and natural part of learning a language, and focusing too much on mistakes can impede progress, especially in speaking.
What is the first grammar mistake discussed in the script?
-The first grammar mistake discussed is the use of double negatives, such as in the phrase 'I didn't do nothing,' which is incorrect because it contains two negative words.
How does the speaker use humor to explain the double negative mistake?
-The speaker uses a comic strip to humorously illustrate the concept of a double negative, where the phrase 'I didn't do nothing' is interpreted as a confession, implying the opposite of the intended meaning.
What is the difference between 'fewer' and 'less', and why is it a common mistake?
-'Fewer' is used with countable nouns, while 'less' is used with uncountable nouns. It is a common mistake because people often use 'less' with countable items, which is incorrect.
Why does the speaker mention 'irregardless' as a problematic word?
-'Irregardless' is problematic because it is a double negative, and although it is recognized by some dictionaries, it is still considered by many to be non-standard English.
What is the issue with using 'gonna' in written English?
-'Gonna' is a colloquial contraction of 'going to' and is commonly used in spoken English. However, it should be avoided in written English as it is not considered formal or accepted in all contexts.
What is the problem with the phrase 'me and my neighbor had a property dispute'?
-The problem with the phrase is the incorrect use of the subject pronoun. It should be 'my neighbor and I' instead of 'me and my neighbor' because 'I' is the correct subject pronoun, not 'me'.
Why does the speaker mention 'more spicy' as a mistake?
-'More spicy' is a mistake because 'spicy' is a two-syllable word that requires the comparative form 'spicier' instead of 'more spicy'. The use of 'more' is incorrect in this context.
What is the difference between 'e.g.' and 'i.e.', and why is it important to use them correctly?
-'E.g.' stands for 'exempli gratia' and is used to list examples, while 'i.e.' stands for 'id est' and is used to clarify or rephrase a statement. Using them correctly is important for clear and accurate communication.
What advice does the speaker give for English learners who make mistakes?
-The speaker advises English learners to not be too hard on themselves for making mistakes, to learn from them, and to continue practicing as mistakes are a natural part of the learning process.

Outlines

00:00

📝 Embracing Grammar Mistakes in English Learning

The speaker starts by encouraging English learners to embrace the natural process of making grammar mistakes, emphasizing that even native speakers are not immune to errors. The goal is to normalize the occurrence of mistakes and to use them as a learning opportunity. The speaker introduces the topic of common grammar errors made by native speakers and invites viewers to participate by identifying mistakes in given examples. The channel, Interactive English, is presented as a resource for those interested in improving their fluency, with Wes as the instructor. Viewers are encouraged to subscribe and join the email community for access to notes and resources.

05:02

🙅‍♂️ The Double Negative: A Common English Pitfall

The speaker discusses the concept of double negatives in English, using the phrase 'I didn't do nothing' as an example. This sentence structure, while incorrect, is sometimes used in informal speech or media to convey a character's essence. The speaker explains the correct use of 'did not' with 'anything' for negative statements and 'nothing' with affirmative statements. The presence of double negatives can change the intended meaning of a sentence, as humorously illustrated with a comic strip. The speaker also notes the prevalence of double negatives in music, citing song titles and lyrics as common examples.

10:05

🛒 The 'Less' vs. 'Fewer' Confusion in English Grammar

The speaker addresses the frequent misuse of 'less' and 'fewer' among both English learners and native speakers. The correct usage is 'fewer' for countable nouns and 'less' for uncountable nouns. The speaker provides examples to illustrate the proper application of these words and notes a common tendency to use 'less' incorrectly with countable items. The speaker also points out that this mistake is often seen in signs, particularly in the United States, such as those indicating '10 items or less' at checkout lanes.

15:05

🗣️ Debating the Acceptance of Informal English Words

The speaker explores the debate surrounding the acceptance of informal or non-standard English words like 'irregardless,' 'gonna,' and 'bigly.' These words, while used in casual speech and sometimes in media, may not be considered correct in formal writing. The speaker discusses the evolution of language and how words can become accepted over time through widespread use. The speaker also shares personal anecdotes about using these words and the reactions from others, highlighting the ongoing discussion about what constitutes 'correct' English.

20:06

🔍 The Trouble with Incomplete Comparatives and Subject Pronouns

The speaker identifies two common grammar mistakes: incomplete comparative sentences and the incorrect use of subject and object pronouns. For comparatives, the speaker explains the need to use 'than' after comparative adjectives to complete the comparison. Examples of incomplete comparatives in advertising are given to illustrate how context can imply the comparison. Regarding pronouns, the speaker clarifies the correct use of 'I' and 'me,' recommending that 'I' and 'me' be placed at the end of a list when used as subjects or objects, respectively.

25:09

🌶️ The 'More Spicy' Error: A Common Misstep in Comparatives

The speaker discusses the mistake of using 'more' incorrectly with adjectives that require a comparative form, such as 'spicy.' The correct form should be 'spicier' rather than 'more spicy.' The speaker provides a rule of thumb for forming comparatives: adding '-er' to shorter words and 'more' to longer words, with exceptions noted. The speaker also suggests that the frequent use of 'more' as a determiner in sentences may lead to its incorrect use in comparative sentences.

30:10

✍️ The IE vs. EG Confusion in Written English

The speaker highlights a writing-specific mistake involving the incorrect use of the abbreviations 'i.e.' and 'e.g.' The speaker explains that 'i.e.' stands for 'id est,' which means 'that is' and is used to clarify or specify, similar to 'for example.' On the other hand, 'e.g.' stands for 'exempla gratia' and is used to list examples. The speaker corrects the misuse of 'i.e.' in a given sentence and emphasizes the importance of using the correct abbreviation in writing to avoid confusion.

🤝 Learning from Mistakes: A Key Aspect of Language Acquisition

In the concluding paragraph, the speaker reiterates the importance of not being overly concerned with making mistakes in the process of learning English. The speaker shares personal experiences of making mistakes and encourages viewers to learn from them. The lesson wraps up with a call to action for viewers to engage by liking the video, commenting, and subscribing for more content. The speaker also thanks the audience for their participation and looks forward to future lessons.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Grammar Mistakes

This term refers to errors made in the structure or usage of language that do not adhere to standard grammatical rules. In the video, the theme revolves around common grammar mistakes, including double negatives and incorrect use of comparatives, which even native speakers might make. It emphasizes the normalcy of making mistakes as part of the learning process.

💡Double Negatives

A double negative occurs when two negative words are used in a sentence, often unintentionally, which can change the intended meaning to its opposite. The script discusses this mistake, using examples like 'I didn't do nothing,' to illustrate how it can create confusion or humor.

💡Count Nouns

Count nouns are nouns that can be counted and have both singular and plural forms. The script explains the importance of using 'fewer' with count nouns, as opposed to 'less,' which is used with non-count nouns, to convey the correct quantity.

💡Non-Count Nouns

Non-count nouns are nouns that cannot be counted and do not have a plural form, often referring to abstract or uncountable items. The video clarifies the usage of 'less' with non-count nouns, contrasting it with 'fewer' used for count nouns.

💡Irregardless

The term 'irregardless' is a word that has been a subject of debate due to its formation as a double negative. The script points out that while it means the same as 'regardless,' its usage is often criticized or considered informal.

💡Gonna

Gonna is a colloquial contraction of 'going to' and is commonly used in spoken English. The video mentions it as a reduction that, while natural in speech, should be avoided in formal writing.

💡Bigly

Bigly is an informal adverb that has gained attention for its use in political contexts. The script notes its humorous or sarcastic connotation and advises learners to use it cautiously to avoid confusion.

💡Incomplete Comparisons

Incomplete comparisons occur when a comparative adjective is used without a clear reference point for comparison, as in 'I ate more.' The video script points out the need to follow such adjectives with 'than' to complete the comparison.

💡Subject and Object Pronouns

Subject pronouns (like 'I') are used when the pronoun is the subject of a sentence, while object pronouns (like 'me') are used when the pronoun is the object. The script highlights the common mistake of using 'me' instead of 'I' in compound subjects.

💡Comparatives

Comparatives are a form of adjectives or adverbs that compare one thing with another. The video explains the correct formation of comparatives, such as adding '-er' to short adjectives like 'spicy' to form 'spicier,' and the common mistake of using 'more' incorrectly.

💡IE and EG

IE (id est) and EG (exempli gratia) are Latin abbreviations used in writing. The script clarifies that IE is incorrectly used in the provided sentence and should be EG, which means 'for example' and is used to introduce a list of items or ideas.

Highlights

It's normal and okay for everyone, including native speakers, to make grammar mistakes.

Focusing too much on mistakes can impede progress in language learning, especially in speaking.

The channel 'Interactive English' aims to help learners reach fluency goals.

Double negatives are common mistakes even among native speakers, as seen in sentences like 'I didn't do nothing'.

Double negatives can unintentionally change the meaning of a statement, as heard in songs and TV shows.

The misuse of 'less' versus 'fewer' is a frequent error, with 'less' often incorrectly used with count nouns.

Signs in stores like '10 items or less' commonly use the incorrect term 'less' instead of 'fewer'.

Words like 'irregardless', 'gonna', and 'bigly' are often used but may not be accepted in formal English.

The word 'irregardless' is controversial and has been recognized by some dictionaries despite its double negative implication.

The use of 'gonna' is common in spoken English but should be avoided in formal writing.

'Bigly', popularized by political figures, is informal and often used humorously or sarcastically.

Incomplete comparative sentences like 'I ate more' are errors that lack the necessary comparison to something else.

The incorrect use of 'me' instead of 'I' as a subject pronoun is a common mistake among English learners.

The correct use of subject and object pronouns in lists is to place 'I' and 'me' at the end of the list.

The error of using 'more spicy' instead of 'spicier' is due to the influence of the word 'more' as a determiner.

The misuse of 'IE' instead of 'EG' in written English is a mistake that confuses the purpose of these Latin abbreviations.

The video encourages learning from mistakes and not being too hard on oneself for grammatical errors.

Transcripts

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