Solecisms

A “solecism” is a word used with ironic effect, right? Sort of like a witticism?

Well, no. A “solecism” is, among other things, a word used incorrectly. I did not know that.

In their online Style Guide, The Economist provides a handy list of common solecisms.

I count myself fairly adept with the English language, yet I found myself surprised, often, while reading this list.

The style guide itself is a good one. I strongly recommend Journalese and Slang, Some dos and don’ts, and, for a look at how we Americans sound to those abroad, Americanisms.

I look forward to my errors in this post being pointed out by commenters, since it’s a well established rule that posts on grammar must contain some grammar or spelling errors.

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