Common Mistake: Using "PM" in the Evening

Using "PM" in the evening is a common mistake that many people make. When referring to the time after 12 noon, it is unnecessary to use "PM" because the hours after noon are automatically considered as part of the afternoon and evening.

For example, saying "7 PM in the evening" is redundant because "PM" already indicates that it is after 12 noon. Instead, simply saying "7 PM" is sufficient.

Another mistake people often make is using both "PM" and "in the evening" together. This can be seen in phrases like "7 PM in the evening" or "10 PM in the evening". In these instances, it is more concise to just use one of the terms.

For example, instead of saying "7 PM in the evening", you can say "7 PM" or "7 in the evening". Both of these options convey the same meaning without unnecessary repetition.

The Correct Format: P.M.

When specifying evening times, it is appropriate to use "P.M." rather than "PM". The abbreviation "P.M." stands for "post meridiem," which is Latin for "after midday."

For example, you can say "7 P.M." to indicate 7 in the evening, or "10 P.M." to indicate 10 at night. These formats are clear and avoid redundancy.

One way to catch mistakes like these is by using a grammar checker like Linguix. Linguix can help identify and correct common grammar and punctuation errors, ensuring your writing is clear and professional.