These are my pet peeves too

…with the addition of could/should/would OF instead of could/should/would HAVE.

Interestingly, these are not mistakes that non-native speakers make. In native speakers this is probably a result of not reading, or less than stellar education. Literally has already changed its meaning to be figuratively in certain dictionaries. Perhaps the others won’t be far behind…

Author: Janet Carr

Fashion, beauty and animal loving language consultant from South Africa living in Stockholm, Sweden.

7 thoughts

      1. Affect is also a noun -“observable and outward expression of emotions.” Example – He showed no emotion. His affect was flat.

  1. I know language is constantly adapting, changing to fit the times. But it annoys me when Americanisms enter into English because they are arrogant, mainly poorly educated (otherwise idiots wouldn’t keep electing criminals) and don’t realise what is happening beyond their borders.

    1. I think that, globally, idiots are the loudest. Unfortunately. The smart ones are drowned out. Most users of the internet are American so I think it gives the impression that stupidity is more widespread there than it is.

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