Common Grammar Mistakes: the expression 'a whole other'

One common grammar mistake that people often make is using the expression 'a whole other'. While it may seem like a perfectly normal phrase in daily conversation, it is actually considered colloquial and informal in written communication.

Let's dig a little deeper into this issue and explore why using 'a whole other' is incorrect and what alternatives can be used instead.

The problem with 'a whole other'

The phrase 'a whole other' is often used to emphasize that something is completely different. For example, someone might say, "That's a whole other story," to emphasize that the topic being discussed is entirely unrelated to the current conversation.

However, from a grammatical standpoint, the word 'other' is already sufficient to convey the meaning of difference or distinction. Adding 'whole' in front of 'other' is redundant and unnecessary.

Formal alternatives

If you're looking for a more formal and grammatically correct alternative to 'a whole other', here are a few options:

• A completely different - This phrase conveys the same meaning as 'a whole other' in a more formal way. For example, instead of saying, "That's a whole other matter," you can say, "That's a completely different matter."
• An entirely separate - This alternative also captures the idea of something being distinct or unrelated. Instead of saying, "We're dealing with a whole other issue here," you can say, "We're dealing with an entirely separate issue here."
• An entirely different - Similar to the previous option, this phrase emphasizes the complete dissimilarity of something. For instance, rather than saying, "That's a whole other story," you can say, "That's an entirely different story."

By using these alternatives, you can elevate your writing and make it more polished and professional.

Linguix grammar checker can help!

Don't forget that using a grammar checker, like Linguix, can also help you identify and correct grammar mistakes in your writing. Whether it's checking for redundant expressions or suggesting more appropriate alternatives, Linguix and other tools can be useful in improving your writing skills.

So, next time you catch yourself using 'a whole other', remember to opt for a more formal alternative. Your writing will thank you!