Before I started teaching English as a second language, I never realized how tricky it can be to learn, especially when it comes to grammar. English grammar has a lot of rules, and sometimes, it can be challenging to remember them all. That’s why it’s normal for people to make mistakes when they try to communicate in English.
I wanted to write a list of the most common grammar mistakes in English, so you can be aware of them and also provided some tips on how to avoid them.
1. Subject-verb agreement
Subject-verb agreement is a basic grammar rule that can be easily overlooked. It means that the verb in a sentence must agree with the subject.
For example, if the subject is singular, the verb must also be singular, and if the subject is plural, the verb must also be plural.
- Incorrect: The book on the table was open.
- Correct: The books on the table were open.
To avoid making mistakes like this, always make sure that the subject and verb match before constructing a sentence.
2. Tenses
Tense is a crucial aspect of English grammar, and it can be challenging to use the right tense in the right context.
For instance, the present tense is used to describe events happening in the present, while the past tense describes events that have already occurred.
- Incorrect: Yesterday, I will eat sushi for dinner.
- Correct: Yesterday, I ate sushi for dinner.
To avoid this mistake, ensure that the tense of the verb is appropriate for the context of the sentence.
3. Prepositions
Prepositions are words that describe the relationship between a noun or pronoun and other words in a sentence.
They are frequently misused, leading to grammatical errors.
- Incorrect: I am looking for my book on.
- Correct: I am looking for my book on the table.
To avoid making this mistake, ensure that you use prepositions correctly and in context.
4. Articles
Articles are words that describe nouns as either definite or indefinite. Definite articles refer to specific nouns, while indefinite articles refer to nonspecific nouns.
- Incorrect: The college degree is important.
- Correct: A college degree is important.
To avoid making this mistake, always check that you use the correct article when describing nouns.
5. Pronouns
Pronouns are words that replace nouns, and they are commonly used to avoid repetition. It is essential to use pronouns correctly, as their misuse can result in grammatical errors.
- Incorrect: He is going to the store, and I am going to the store, too.
- Correct: He is going to the store, and I am going with him.
To avoid confusion with pronouns, make sure that you use them appropriately, and they are clear and consistent in the sentence.
6. Adjectives and adverbs
Adjectives describe nouns or pronouns, while adverbs describe verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. The misuse of adjectives and adverbs can result in grammatical errors.
- Incorrect: She sings beautiful.
- Correct: She sings beautifully.
To avoid this mistake, ensure that you use adjectives to describe nouns and adverbs to describe verbs or adjectives.
In conclusion, English grammar can be challenging, but with practice and patience, it can be mastered.
By understanding and avoiding common grammar mistakes like subject-verb agreement, tense usage, prepositions, articles, pronouns, and adjectives and adverbs, you can become a better English speaker and writer.
Stay up to date with all our blog posts!
Get in touch with us!
