Grammar Faux Pas & How to Avoid Them

Even the simplest words can be tricky when it comes to usage. Homophones are confusing for some of us! And for the non-copywriters of the world, a little support can be necessary when you’re creating important deliverables or even just for everyday client communication. So, in honor of National Grammar Day, we’re running through a few classic grammar mistakes you may or may not be familiar with. Here we go!

Over vs. More Than

This is a mix-up we see ALL THE TIME, and though it’s not quite as offensive as other grammar mistakes encountered, it’s still one to watch. So what is the rule for over vs more than? Generally speaking, you’ll want to use “more than” before the use of a number. For example…

Maycreate has served more than a hundred clients.

Margot has more than $20 in her wallet.

We’ve been a Chattanooga agency for more than 19 years.

On the other hand, the word “over” is best used when discussing where objects are physically, like “The cow jumped over the moon.” Ok. More than a few more faux pas to go. (See what we did there?)

Peek, Peak, or Pique?

These homophones tend to trip up even the most diligent of spellers from time to time. If it’s you, don’t fret. You’re not alone. Though they all sound the same phonetically, each of these words has a very different meaning! Peek means to look or glance quickly, peak is the pointed top of a mountain (or any object, really), and pique means to excite or to wound. Next time you’re sneaking a peek, climbing a peak, or piquing someone’s interest, make sure you’re using the correct spelling, my guy.

Lay vs. Lie

Ok, really. What is the difference between lay and lie? Lay requires a direct object. Lie does not require a direct object. Simply put: you lay something down, while you as a person (not an object) lie down. Examples…

My head hurts, so I’m going to lie down.

I’d rather not lay my jacket on the floor.

Again, this is a majorly common error you’ll notice in both conversation and writing. Just remember…Chickens lay eggs. Tired people lie down. Badabing!

That vs. Who

This is yet another frequently made mistake, but a fairly simple rule to understand. When you are choosing between “that” and “who,” remember “who” is always the choice when you’re referring to a person. “That” is the choice when you’re talking about inanimate objects. Examples?

I saw the car that was parked outside the office.

I did not see the person who was driving the car.

Easy peasy!

Less vs. Fewer

Grammar nerds, reveal yourselves! This one’s for you. (Ok, ok, they’re all for you.) We’ve all seen the “10 Items or Less” signs at the supermarket. Well, hot take: they’re grammatically incorrect. They should say “10 Items or Fewer.” The reason for this is that the adjective “fewer” is appropriately used when we’re describing countable items. The 10 items in your shopping basket are certainly countable. Conversely, when the items being described are less easily quantifiable, the adjective “less” is the correct choice. Let’s see it in practice.

Frog and Toad should probably eat fewer cookies.

Santa should definitely drink less milk.

Whatever You Say, Say it Correctly.

Whether or not grammar is your thing, it’s important to check yourself when communicating with clients, building ads, and representing yourself and your business to the world. Ensuring your wording is accurate, clear, and– in the best cases– clever, is a great idea. Ensuring it’s grammatically correct should be a must. Even so, not everyone is a wordsmith, and that’s ok. If you need a little support in the word department, let our seasoned copywriters, Monty Wyne and Lindsey Lowe help you artfully craft your marketing messages. Our team would love to work with you. 

Already a client? Hit us up! Thinking about working with Maycreate? Contact one of our Account Supervisors and Brand Strategists, John Wagoner or Aaron Petticord, or give us a call at 423.634.0123 to get things going.