COMMON
SENTENCE
ERRORS
U n d e r s t a n d i n g a n d Av o i d i n g C o m m o n M i s t a ke s
Date:
Dec 16, 2024
INTRODUCTION
Clear and correct sentences are essential for
effective communication. Errors can distort
meaning, undermine professionalism, and create
misunderstandings. In this presentation, we will:
https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x96rel4
Understand why they occur
Learn practical strategies to avoid them
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1.SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT
ERRORS
Subject-verb agreement is a fundamental rule in grammar.
When the subject and verb do not match in number, the
sentence becomes incorrect.
Incorrect: The list of items are on the desk.
Correct: The list of items is on the desk.
Tips to Avoid Errors:
Identify the subject of the sentence.
Ensure the verb matches the subject in singular or
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2. SENTENCE FRAGMENTS
A sentence fragment is an incomplete thought that
lacks a subject, a verb, or both. Fragments make
writing unclear.
Fragment: Because I was late.
Complete: I missed the bus because I was late.
Tips to Avoid Errors:
Ensure every sentence has a subject, a verb, and
expresses a complete thought. 4
3. RUN-ON SENTENCES
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4. MISPLACED MODIFIERS
A misplaced modifier creates confusion by appearing
too far from the word it describes. Unlike a dangling
modifier, the word being modified is present in the
sentence but is in the wrong position.
Incorrect: She almost drove her kids to school every
day.
Correct: She drove her kids to school almost every
day.
Tips to Avoid Errors: 6
5. DANGLING MODIFIERS
Dangling modifiers occur when the word being described is
missing from the sentence.
Incorrect: Walking to the park, the flowers were
beautiful.
Correct: Walking to the park, I saw beautiful flowers.
Tips to Avoid Errors:
Ensure the subject performing the action is explicitly
mentioned.
Rewrite sentences to clarify the relationship between 7
6. INCORRECT USE OF
HOMOPHONES
Homophones are words that sound alike but have
different meanings and spellings. Misusing them can
change the meaning of a sentence.
Incorrect: Their going to the park.
Correct: They’re going to the park.
Tips to Avoid Errors:
1.Learn and memorize commonly confused homophones.
2.Double-check your writing for context-appropriate
usage.
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7. OVERUSE OF PASSIVE VOICE
Passive voice makes sentences less direct and harder to
follow. Although the passive voice is useful in certain
situations, but its excessive use can make writing seem
vague and indirect.
Passive: The book was read by Sarah.
Active: Sarah read the book.
Tips to Avoid Error:
Identify the subject and make it perform the action.
Reserve passive voice for specific contexts 9
8. AVOIDING INAPPROPRIATE LANGUAGE
Using professional and respectful language is crucial in
communication. Sexual or inappropriate words can:
Create discomfort or misunderstandings
Damage credibility and professionalism
Lead to serious consequences in formal settings
Examples:
•Avoid: Any sexual innuendo, slang, or inappropriate
jokes.
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CONT…
Tips to Avoid Errors:
Be aware of the audience and context.
Avoid slang or colloquial expressions in professional
communication.
Review and revise for tone and appropriateness.
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THANK YOU
