ethics
08-04-2007, 10:24 PM
Some quick rules:
1. Discussion should be around American English language, written and spoken. That doesn't mean you can't discuss British (or other types) of English. Just means that when we discuss a proper usage, it's implied to be American.
2. Do not be petty. There are many issues surrounding English Language that have more than one answer, or the answer maybe unattainable. We will try to do the best we can to answer all questions but please do not get hung on an issue in such emotional way that you end up leaving this forum. We are all learning.
Also, what "do no be petty" means is don't latch on to trivial corrections. And God help you if you are pointing out errors just to appear erudite.
Those above are it for now. We may add more. If you have suggestions for more, PM me.
FAQ:
1. What is the source we should use when we are debating a proper word, grammar, or usage?
Strunk's Elements of Style (http://209.10.134.179/141/) is the ultimate Bible for this. Although there's a great supporting cast. Please keep in mind, as animals, language is constantly evolving. Words, usage, and where something goes changes.
2. What's the best dictionary to use for debate?
Oxford's, of course. But if you don't have 300 bucks laying around to buy the cd's, others like American Heritage, Merriam Webster's, etc... will help out just as well in 90% of the time.
3. If someone corrects me in here. What do I do?
Do not get mad. If you do, you don't belong here. Go to usercp, edit options, and put this forum on ignore. This forum is for those that want to learn, not for those that want to compete in sizes of their egos.
4. If I see someone using a word inappropriately outside this forum, can I address that here?
Sure, but some people are very sensitive and it would be best to address the proper term/issue without mentioning names or linking to the post. There are others like ethics who prefers correction when he is incorrect; this is the best forum for it--also eliminates the other thread going OT.
Above rules and FAQ in general is subject to change.
1. Discussion should be around American English language, written and spoken. That doesn't mean you can't discuss British (or other types) of English. Just means that when we discuss a proper usage, it's implied to be American.
2. Do not be petty. There are many issues surrounding English Language that have more than one answer, or the answer maybe unattainable. We will try to do the best we can to answer all questions but please do not get hung on an issue in such emotional way that you end up leaving this forum. We are all learning.
Also, what "do no be petty" means is don't latch on to trivial corrections. And God help you if you are pointing out errors just to appear erudite.
Those above are it for now. We may add more. If you have suggestions for more, PM me.
FAQ:
1. What is the source we should use when we are debating a proper word, grammar, or usage?
Strunk's Elements of Style (http://209.10.134.179/141/) is the ultimate Bible for this. Although there's a great supporting cast. Please keep in mind, as animals, language is constantly evolving. Words, usage, and where something goes changes.
2. What's the best dictionary to use for debate?
Oxford's, of course. But if you don't have 300 bucks laying around to buy the cd's, others like American Heritage, Merriam Webster's, etc... will help out just as well in 90% of the time.
3. If someone corrects me in here. What do I do?
Do not get mad. If you do, you don't belong here. Go to usercp, edit options, and put this forum on ignore. This forum is for those that want to learn, not for those that want to compete in sizes of their egos.
4. If I see someone using a word inappropriately outside this forum, can I address that here?
Sure, but some people are very sensitive and it would be best to address the proper term/issue without mentioning names or linking to the post. There are others like ethics who prefers correction when he is incorrect; this is the best forum for it--also eliminates the other thread going OT.
Above rules and FAQ in general is subject to change.