A recent promotional excerpt for the ABC reboot of the classic crime drama Bergerac has sparked a discussion on grammar and the importance of clarity in writing. The sentence, “A widower for six months, drinking has become his means of forgetting,” was identified by Mary Dearing as a classic example of a dangling modifier. This grammatical error implies that it is the act of drinking that is the widower, rather than the character of Bergerac himself.
The reboot, set in Jersey, introduces viewers to a widower who turns to alcohol to cope with his loss. Dearing points out that a clearer sentence would read: “A widower for six months, Bergerac drinks to forget.” The confusion highlights how easily such mistakes can occur and the significance of precise language in storytelling.
Common Grammar Errors and Their Impact
The issue of dangling modifiers is not limited to television scripts. Columnist Kate Halfpenny fell into a similar trap in her memoir, stating, “Growing up in a Tasmanian hotel-motel, my New Year’s Eve had a set rhythm.” This construction suggests that the New Year’s Eve itself grew up in the hotel-motel, rather than the author. Such errors may flow well but can obscure meaning.
Another example in Dearing’s collection involves an architect’s humorous remark: “Originally the horse paddock for the stately home behind, [John] Wardle likes to joke about the fertile patch of earth he found.” This phrasing whimsically suggests that a person is being compared to a landscape, underscoring the need for accurate language in professional communication.
The conversation around grammar extends beyond mere mistakes. David Field raised a pertinent point about the use of “data” as a plural or singular noun. While “data suggests” is commonly used, it is technically incorrect. The term “datum” refers to a single fact, while “data” encompasses multiple pieces of information. Field questioned the balance between grammatical accuracy and everyday usage, a distinction that many grapple with in modern English.
Inclusive Language and Pronoun Use
The discussion also touched on the inclusivity of language. John Alexander shared a personal anecdote from a football game, where he stated, “We won,” despite not being part of the team. This reflects the use of “we” to encompass not just the players but the entire community of supporters. Language expert Deb Doyle explained that such usage signifies a sense of belonging, where “we” includes team members, fans, and officials alike.
Another intriguing case involved Craig McIntosh, who recounted attending his cousin Colin’s funeral. He expressed uncertainty over whether to say, “I’m Colin’s cousin from Sydney” or “I was Colin’s cousin from Sydney.” Doyle clarified that the present tense applies to his residence, while the past tense is appropriate for his cousin’s status. This dual tense scenario illustrates the nuances of language in emotional contexts.
These grammatical discussions emphasize the importance of clarity and precision. Language is not static; it evolves over time, reflecting changes in society and culture. As such, while traditional rules are important, the fluidity of language allows for adaptation to modern usage.
For those interested in honing their language skills, resources such as crosswords and grammar newsletters offer valuable insights. The conversation around grammar is ongoing, and as language continues to evolve, so too will our understanding and usage of it.
