Common Mistakes in English Grammar

Introduction

English grammar can be tricky, even for native speakers. There are many common mistakes that even the most fluent English speakers make. In this article, we will discuss some of these mistakes and how to avoid them.

Using the Correct Verb Form after Modal Verbs

Modal verbs are a type of auxiliary verb that are used to express possibility, necessity, permission, and ability. They include verbs like "can," "could," "may," "might," "must," "shall," "should," "will," "would," and "ought to." One common mistake is using the wrong verb form after a modal verb.

• Mistake: Can I sent it?
• Correction: Can I send it?

In the example above, "sent" is the incorrect verb form after the modal verb "can." The correct form should be "send."

Apostrophe Misuse

Apostrophes are commonly misused in English. They are used to indicate possession and contraction, but many people confuse when to use them.

• Mistake: The cat's ate my homework.
• Correction: The cats ate my homework.

In this example, the incorrect use of the apostrophe suggests that the cat owns something. The correct form should omit the apostrophe and use the plural form of "cat."

Subject-Verb Agreement

Subject-verb agreement is an important aspect of English grammar. The subject of a sentence must agree with the verb in terms of number (singular or plural).

• Mistake: The book on the table were interesting.
• Correction: The book on the table was interesting.

In this example, the subject "book" is singular, so the verb "were" should be changed to the singular form "was."

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