Is it ‘All of the sudden’ or ‘All of a sudden’?

Today I set the record straight on a saying that is commonly written incorrectly. It would be easy to think that the phrase was all of the sudden. It certainly sounds like it could be correct and it might appear to make sense. However, the correct phrase is All of a sudden. The phrase means...

You’re vs Your

These words are very commonly confused but also commonly known to be confusing. Many of you will know exactly how to use these words so I don't wish to sound patronising if this is the case. I just want to clear it up for those who are confused. Your is the possessive form of the...

Inspiration for Poetry

Have you always wanted to write poetry but don't know what to write about? Or are you stuck in a rut or experiencing a block with your poetry and just need some fresh ideas? Look no further. This week on my blog I'm giving you three ways to be inspired to write poetry. 1. Start...

Bear vs Bare

This one can be confusing because of the different meanings and forms of the word. Bear is the name of a certain furry animal that can be cuddly or a threat. There's a bear on the loose. I love my teddy bear. It also serves as a verb meaning to tolerate, endure or carry something....

Whose vs Who’s

Let's get straight to this week's pair of easily confused words. We use whose when we are trying to find out who something belongs to or is associated with. Whose jacket is this? This car is parked illegally and I need to know whose it is. and also Whose round is it? It can also...

Capital vs Capitol

I’m a bit late for a midweek post but hopefully you’ll excuse me as I’m on a family holiday. This post will hopefully clear up the confusion over these two very similar words. These words are often mixed up. People find themselves writing capitol when the word they are really looking for is capital. An...

Is it “step foot” or “set foot”?

In this midweek post I'm going to set the record straight about a saying that is often misused. You might have heard someone say they are never going to set foot in a place again. You might also have heard someone say they knew a place had a strange feeling as soon as they stepped...

Advise vs Advice

Today I give you two words that are closely connected and often confused. Advise is a verb and it means to recommend a course of action or to give information. Emma advised her class to use their workbooks to study for the test the following week. I would advise you to hire a proofreader before...

Stationery vs Stationary

This one used to confuse me until I learnt a little hint to remember the difference! Read on to find out. Stationery (noun) Stationery is the word that refers to pens, pencils, pads and other items that we need for writing. I’m an avid collector of stationery. I love to buy new stationery. Stationary (adjective)...

Which Tense?

In fiction, you have a choice of which tense you choose to use in your narration. Present When you use the present tense you are telling the story as if it is happening to you or your character as you write. I open the door. In the doorway there is a shadow. I immediately slam...