"MaryHi! I’m Kathy Ide. In addition to being a published author, I’m a full-time professional freelance editor. For CAN, I’m blogging about "PUGS"–Punctuation, Usage, Grammar, and Spelling…tips for writers based on the most common mistakes I see in the manuscripts I edit. Each blog post will have one tip for each of the four categories. (For more PUGS tips, check out my website, or get a copy of my book Polishing the PUGS (available through the website or at the conferences where I teach). If you’re interested in working with a freelance editor (or know someone who is), e-mail me through the contact page of my website. Or go to the Christian Editor Network to get referrals to other established, professional editorial freelancers. If you’re a freelance editor yourself, or think you might be interested in that field, check out The Christian PEN: Proofreaders and Editors Network.

 

PUNCTUATION TIP

Words as Words

Italicize words used as words, or phrases used as phrases.

Examples:

“The word love has many meanings, Amber,” Rob said.

“Is that why the phrase I love you is so hard for you to say?” she retorted.

 

 

USAGE TIP

complement/compliment

 

complement (noun): something that completes

“This book contains a full complement of screenwriting techniques.”

 

complement (verb): to complete

“That jewelry complements Kristin’s dress.”

“The two coauthors complement each other with their different abilities.”

 

compliment (noun): flattery or praise

“Arlene enjoyed the compliment Elaine paid her.”

 

 

GRAMMAR TIP

myriad

myriad (adjective): innumerable

“Louise looked at the myriad stars in the sky.”

 

myriad (noun): a great number, or ten thousand

“They encountered a myriad of problems in their relationship.”

“She experienced myriads of difficulties getting her book published.”

 

NOTE: The noun usage of this word has been criticized in recent years, but Webster’s 11th claims that it is acceptable.

 

 

SPELLING TIP

good night (two words, no hyphen)

 

 

One thought on “PUGS Pointers #27

nosa eke

December 5, 2013 - 21 : 17 : 05

Take a look at the words ‘portable’ and ‘potable.'(nosaeke2001@yahoo.com

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