That and all

Here’s a quirk found in southern India – ‘that and all’:Ex:1. That and all, I don’t know.2. That and all, you have to ask your other teacher.3. That and all, I don’t like. Better forms:1. I don’t know all that.2. You have to ask your other teacher, such things.3. I Read more…

a an the

A vs. The

Let us analyze these two sentences: “I am a student.” “I am the student.” Are you ‘a’ student or ‘the’ student? Both the above are correct sentences but what is the difference?  Other similar examples: 1. I am an Indian. 2. I am the Indian who represented the delegation. BTW, Read more…

Can Will May

Can – May – Will

Let us look at these three sentences: 1. “Can he speak to her?” 2. “May he speak to her?” 3. “Will he speak to her?” All of the above are correct but convey different shades of meaning.  ‘Can’ refers to ability. ‘May’ expresses permission, possibility or contingency. ‘Will’ refers to Read more…

Effect vs. Affect

Affect vs. Effect

Here are some sentences with the words ‘Affect’ and ‘Effect’. Anna’s ideals and determination have affected lakhs of people. Will the bill really come into effect?  What effect will it ultimately produce? The movie was so affective that it moved me very much. Her teaching methods are effective. See the Read more…