7 English Grammar Rules You Can (and Probably Should) Break

Language is a living entity, constantly evolving and adapting to the needs of its speakers. As such, the rigid rules of grammar that once governed our communication are increasingly being challenged. While traditionalists may argue that adhering to established grammatical conventions is essential for clarity and professionalism, many modern linguists and writers advocate for a more flexible approach.

This shift reflects not only changes in societal norms but also the natural progression of language itself. In this article, we will explore various instances where breaking conventional grammar rules can enhance communication, foster creativity, and reflect contemporary usage. The notion of breaking grammar rules often evokes a sense of rebellion against the prescriptive norms that have long dictated how we should write and speak.

However, it is crucial to understand that these rules were not always set in stone; they have evolved over time, shaped by cultural shifts and the influence of different dialects. As we delve into specific examples of grammatical transgressions, we will uncover how these deviations can enrich our language and make it more relatable to diverse audiences. Registration is now open for our professional English classes at the NLS Norwegian Language School. Enroll today to advance your skills. Learn more

Summary

• Breaking grammar rules can sometimes be acceptable and even necessary for effective communication.
• Ending a sentence with a preposition is a common practice in spoken and written English, despite traditional grammar rules.
• Splitting infinitives can add emphasis and clarity to a sentence, and is widely accepted in modern English usage.
• Using double negatives can be a stylistic choice in informal language, but should be avoided in formal writing.
• Beginning a sentence with a conjunction can be used for emphasis or to create a conversational tone in writing.

Ending a sentence with a preposition

One of the most debated grammar rules is the prohibition against ending sentences with prepositions. Traditionally, this rule was upheld as a marker of formal writing, with many believing that such constructions were indicative of poor grammar. However, this perspective has shifted significantly in recent years.

In everyday conversation and even in many forms of written communication, ending a sentence with a preposition has become widely accepted and often sounds more natural. Consider the sentence, “This is the book I was talking about.” While some may argue that it would be more correct to say, “About which I was talking,” the latter construction feels stilted and overly formal in casual contexts. Language is meant to facilitate communication, and if a particular structure enhances clarity and flow, it should not be dismissed outright.

Embracing the use of prepositions at the end of sentences allows for a more conversational tone, making our writing more accessible and engaging.

Splitting infinitives

Another contentious area of grammar involves splitting infinitives, which occurs when an adverb is inserted between “to” and the verb. The most famous example is the phrase “to boldly go,” which has become iconic thanks to its association with the “Star Trek” franchise. Critics of split infinitives often argue that they disrupt the flow of a sentence and should be avoided in favour of more traditional constructions.

However, this perspective overlooks the fact that splitting infinitives can sometimes enhance clarity and emphasis. For instance, consider the difference between “to quickly finish” and “to finish quickly.” The former places emphasis on the speed of the action, while the latter may suggest that finishing is the priority rather than the speed at which it is done. In many cases, splitting an infinitive can add nuance to our writing, allowing us to convey our intended meaning more effectively.

As language continues to evolve, so too should our understanding of its rules; embracing split infinitives can lead to more dynamic and expressive communication.

Using double negatives

The use of double negatives is another area where traditional grammar rules often clash with contemporary usage. In standard English, double negatives are typically viewed as incorrect; for example, saying “I don’t know nothing” is considered grammatically flawed. However, in many dialects and informal contexts, double negatives serve as a means of emphasis or reinforcement.

In these cases, they can convey a stronger negation than a single negative would. For instance, in some regional dialects, saying “I ain’t got no money” is not only acceptable but also carries a specific cultural resonance. It reflects a particular way of speaking that is rich in identity and community ties.

While it may not align with standard grammatical conventions, it serves a purpose within its context. Recognising the validity of double negatives in certain situations allows us to appreciate the diversity of language and its ability to reflect different experiences and backgrounds.

Beginning a sentence with a conjunction

Beginning sentences with conjunctions such as “and,” “but,” or “or” has long been frowned upon in formal writing. The belief was that such constructions were indicative of poor sentence structure or a lack of sophistication. However, this rule has gradually fallen out of favour as writers seek to create more fluid and engaging prose.

Starting a sentence with a conjunction can provide emphasis or create a sense of continuity between ideas. For example, consider the sentences: “I wanted to go for a walk. But it started raining.” The second sentence feels abrupt and disconnected from the first.

By beginning with “But,” we create a smoother transition: “But it started raining.” This technique can enhance the rhythm of our writing and make it feel more conversational. As we continue to explore language’s evolution, embracing this practice can lead to more dynamic and relatable communication.

Using singular “they”

The use of singular “they” has gained significant traction in recent years as society becomes increasingly aware of gender diversity and inclusivity. Traditionally, English has relied on gendered pronouns such as “he” or “she” to refer to individuals. However, this binary approach fails to accommodate those who identify outside these categories.

The adoption of singular “they” offers a solution that respects individual identity while maintaining grammatical coherence. For instance, instead of saying, “Each student should submit his or her assignment,” one might say, “Each student should submit their assignment.” This construction not only simplifies the sentence but also acknowledges non-binary identities without resorting to cumbersome alternatives. The acceptance of singular “they” reflects broader societal changes and highlights the importance of language as a tool for inclusivity.

As we continue to navigate discussions around gender and identity, embracing singular “they” can foster greater understanding and respect within our communication.

Ending a sentence with a proposition

As previously discussed, ending sentences with prepositions has become increasingly accepted in modern English usage. This shift extends to other grammatical structures as well, including propositions. While traditional grammar rules may dictate that certain phrases should be restructured to avoid ending with a proposition, doing so can often lead to awkward or convoluted sentences.

For example, consider the phrase: “This is something I cannot agree with.” A more natural construction might be: “This is something I cannot agree on.” The latter feels more fluid and conversational while still conveying the intended meaning clearly. As language evolves, so too should our understanding of its rules; embracing these changes allows for more authentic expression in our writing.

Dangling participles

Dangling participles occur when a participial phrase is not clearly connected to the noun it modifies, leading to confusion or ambiguity in meaning. For example, consider the sentence: “Walking down the street, the flowers caught my eye.” Here, it appears as though the flowers are walking down the street, which is clearly nonsensical. To avoid such confusion, it is essential to ensure that participial phrases are correctly linked to their subjects.

Revising this sentence for clarity might yield: “Walking down the street, I noticed the flowers.” This construction eliminates ambiguity by clearly indicating who is performing the action. While dangling participles may be seen as a grammatical faux pas, they serve as an important reminder of the need for clarity in our writing. By paying attention to how we structure our sentences, we can enhance comprehension and ensure our intended meaning is conveyed effectively.

Using “me” instead of “I” in certain cases

The distinction between “I” and “me” can often lead to confusion among speakers and writers alike. Traditionally, “I” is used as the subject of a sentence while “me” serves as an object; however, many people mistakenly use “I” in contexts where “me” would be grammatically correct. For instance, one might say: “My friend and I went to the cinema,” which is correct; however, they might incorrectly say: “My friend gave I some advice,” when it should be: “My friend gave me some advice.” Understanding when to use each pronoun is essential for clear communication.

In informal contexts, such errors may go unnoticed; however, in formal writing or professional settings, adhering to these distinctions can enhance credibility and demonstrate attention to detail. By practising proper usage of “I” and “me,” we can improve our overall command of language and convey our messages more effectively.

Starting a sentence with “and” or “but”

The practice of starting sentences with conjunctions like “and” or “but” has been met with resistance from traditional grammarians who argue that such constructions undermine sentence structure. However, as language evolves, so too does our understanding of effective communication. Beginning sentences with conjunctions can create emphasis or provide continuity between ideas while also lending a conversational tone to our writing.

For example: “I wanted to go for a walk. And then I realised it was raining.” The use of “And” at the beginning of the second sentence creates a sense of connection between thoughts while also adding an element of surprise or contrast. Embracing this practice allows writers to craft more engaging narratives that resonate with readers on a personal level.

Using informal language in writing

In an age where digital communication dominates our interactions, informal language has become increasingly prevalent in both spoken and written forms. While traditional grammar rules may advocate for formality in writing—particularly in academic or professional contexts—there is growing recognition that informal language can enhance relatability and engagement with audiences. Using colloquial expressions or conversational tones can make writing feel more approachable and authentic.

For instance, instead of saying: “It is imperative that we address this issue,” one might opt for: “We really need to tackle this problem.” The latter feels more genuine and resonates with readers on a personal level. As we navigate an ever-changing linguistic landscape, embracing informal language can foster connections between writers and their audiences while also reflecting contemporary communication styles. In conclusion, breaking grammar rules can often lead to richer and more engaging forms of expression.

As language continues to evolve alongside society’s changing norms and values, it is essential for writers to remain open-minded about these shifts. By embracing practices such as ending sentences with prepositions or using singular “they,” we can create more inclusive and relatable communication styles that resonate with diverse audiences. For those looking to improve their English skills while exploring these contemporary usages further, NLS Norwegian Language School in Oslo offers comprehensive English courses tailored for various proficiency levels.

These courses not only focus on traditional grammar but also encourage students to engage with modern linguistic trends that reflect real-world usage. By participating in these courses at NLS, learners can develop their language skills in an environment that values both grammatical accuracy and creative expression—equipping them for success in today’s dynamic linguistic landscape.

Registration is now open for our professional English classes at the NLS Norwegian Language School. Enroll today to advance your skills.