Common mistake missing pronoun after 'where/when/how/why'

Common Mistake: Missing pronoun after 'where/when/how/why'

When constructing sentences, it is important to pay attention to the use of pronouns after words like 'where', 'when', 'how', and 'why'. These words are called interrogative adverbs or adverbials, and they function to ask questions about the location, time, manner, or reason of an action.

For example:

  • Where is the train station?
  • When did you arrive?
  • How can I help you?
  • Why are you late?

However, a common mistake that occurs is when the pronoun is omitted after these interrogative adverbs, resulting in incorrect and incomplete sentences.

Here are some examples of the mistake:

  • Where you going? (Correct: Where are you going?)
  • When I see you? (Correct: When will I see you?)
  • How can help you? (Correct: How can I help you?)
  • Why are late? (Correct: Why are you late?)

Notice how the sentences with the missing pronouns sound incomplete and grammatically incorrect.

In order to avoid this common mistake, always remember to include the appropriate pronoun after words like 'where', 'when', 'how', and 'why' when forming your sentences.

Grammar checkers like Linguix can also help identify and correct this mistake, ensuring that your writing is clear, concise, and error-free.

missing pronoun after 'where/when/how/why' mistake examples

  • Incorrect:
    We should find out where will have to go.

    Correct:
    We should find out where it|where you|where I|where we will have to go.

  • Incorrect:
    Tom promised Mary to find a place where would be safe.

    Correct:
    Tom promised Mary to find a place where it|where you|where I|where we would be safe.

  • Incorrect:
    Tom promised Mary to find a place, where would be safe.

    Correct:
    Tom promised Mary to find a place, where it|where you|where I|where we would be safe.

  • Incorrect:
    We proudly announce our very own online blog, where will find some fascinating facts on spelling, grammar, word choice, and language.

    Correct:
    We proudly announce our very own online blog, where it|where you|where I|where we will find some fascinating facts on spelling, grammar, word choice, and language.

  • Incorrect:
    Give me a call so when can go over meeting before the game to get you the tickets.

    Correct:
    Give me a call so when it|when you|when I|when we can go over meeting before the game to get you the tickets.

  • Correct:
    How can love love love?
  • Correct:
    Let me know when would be a good time.
  • Correct:
    Let me know when will be good for both you and John on next Wednesday afternoon.
  • Correct:
    Please let me know where would be best.
  • Correct:
    Also, suggestions for where would be good.
  • Correct:
    Please let me know when will be the best time to install and please verify your location.
  • Correct:
    Please let me know when would be a convenient date and time to meet.
  • Correct:
    Just let me know when might work for you to get together
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