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Top 8 mistakes English language learners make

As an English language learner, it can be challenging to master the rules of grammar. Even native speakers make grammar mistakes from time to time. But fear not! In this blog post, we will explore the top 8 grammar mistakes that English language learners make and provide tips on how to fix them.

Grammatical Structure of Phrasal Verbs

      1. Subject-verb agreement
        One of the most common grammar mistakes is incorrect subject-verb agreement. This occurs when the subject and verb do not match in number. For example, saying “The group of students is studying” is correct because the subject (group) is singular. However, saying “The group of students are studying” is incorrect because the subject (group) is singular, but the verb (are) is plural.

        To fix this mistake, ensure that the subject and verb match in number. If the subject is singular, use a singular verb, and if the subject is plural, use a plural verb.

      2. Pronoun usage
        Another common mistake is incorrect pronoun usage. This occurs when the wrong pronoun is used to refer to a person, place, or thing. For example, saying “Me and my friends went to the park” is incorrect because “me” should be replaced with “I.”

        To fix this mistake, make sure to use the correct pronoun when referring to people, places, or things.

      3. Using the wrong preposition
        Using the wrong preposition is a common mistake that can alter the meaning of a sentence. For example, saying “I’m excited for the weekend” is incorrect because “for” should be replaced with “about.”

        To fix this mistake, ensure that the preposition used is correct for the context of the sentence.

      4. Misusing apostrophes
        Misusing apostrophes is another common grammar mistake. This occurs when apostrophes are used incorrectly in contractions or possessives. For example, saying “It is time for it’s lunch” is incorrect because “it’s” should not have an apostrophe.

        To fix this mistake, use apostrophes correctly in contractions (e.g., “it’s” for “it is”) and possessives (e.g., “the dog’s bone” for “the bone belonging to the dog”).

      5. Confusing homophones
        Homophones are words that sound the same but have different meanings. Confusing homophones is a common mistake that can change the meaning of a sentence. For example, saying “I’ll meet you their” is incorrect because “their” should be replaced with “there.”

        To fix this mistake, make sure to use the correct homophone in the sentence.

      6. Using run-on sentences
        Run-on sentences are sentences that are too long and do not have appropriate punctuation. This is a common mistake that can make sentences difficult to read and understand. For example, saying “I woke up early this morning I had breakfast I went to work” is a run-on sentence.
        To fix this mistake, break up long sentences into shorter ones or use appropriate punctuation to separate ideas.
      7. Incorrectly using commas
        Commas are important for indicating pauses and separating ideas in a sentence. However, incorrect comma usage is a common mistake. For example, saying “After going for a run I love, to eat pizza with my friends” is incorrect because the comma should be placed after “run” rather than before.

        To fix this mistake, make sure to use commas correctly to separate ideas and indicate pauses.

      8. Using passive voice
        Using passive voice is a common grammar mistake that can make sentences less clear and concise. Passive voice occurs when the subject of the sentence is acted upon rather than acting. For example, saying “The ball was thrown by John” is passive voice.

        I hope these pointers are helpful. Remember to stay patient with yourself and be consistent with your learning plan!