If You Can Verb a Noun, Can You Also Noun-ize a Verb?

Published on June 12, 2025 by Julia Merkus, MA

In informal speech, using a verb as a noun may be acceptable. But we’ll show you three strategies to avoid this conversion when writing.

Strategies to Detect Differences in Verbs and Nouns
  1. Look for the noun that refers to the verb.
  2. Be aware of exceptions and use them as needed.
  3. Rephrase the whole sentence and use a verb construction.

Continue reading: If You Can Verb a Noun, Can You Also Noun-ize a Verb?

It’s a Thin (Border)Line Between Being Linguistically Sound and Politically Correct

Published on June 12, 2025 by Julia Merkus, MA

How do I spell languages, places, and nationalities correctly? Why should I be sensitive about where to put a hyphen?

Correct Use of Geographic Terms
  • Always uppercase.
  • Usually, there is only one correct adjective ending: -ite, -(ia)n, -(e)r.
  • Hyphenation for geographic specifications and politically correct identities
  • Be sensitive about ethnicities, religions, and origin countries.

Continue reading: It’s a Thin (Border)Line Between Being Linguistically Sound and Politically Correct

The “M” in “Whom” Stands for Mundane Grammar Rule—Really, Who Invented This?

Published on June 12, 2025 by Julia Merkus, MA

Although whom is gradually disappearing from everyday English, it remains an important consideration in formal writing. The key to choosing the right word lies in three simple strategies: replacing the pronoun, examining the sentence structure, and identifying its grammatical role. And if uncertainty lingers, who is a safe and increasingly acceptable choice.

Continue reading: The “M” in “Whom” Stands for Mundane Grammar Rule—Really, Who Invented This?

How Can I Come Up With Good Phrasal Verbs? Please Stick Around.

Published on June 12, 2025 by Julia Merkus, MA

Phrasal verbs often appear in informal language. But should I really avoid using them in my writing, or are some appropriate?

Correct Use
  • Try not to use informal (mostly figurative) phrasal verbs.
  • Go for neutral phrasal verbs in your writing.
  • Only use formal phrasal verbs in reasonable settings.
  • If you have the choice, take the non-phrasal verb instead.

Continue reading: How Can I Come Up With Good Phrasal Verbs? Please Stick Around.