Notes

Question 0

What are the 2 definitions of vernacular?

Answer 0

1. Standard native language of a country or locality

2. Everyday language specific to a region or social group

Question 1

What is linguistics?

Answer 1

The study of the nature, structure, and variation of language

Question 2

What is colloquial speech?

Answer 2

Words used in ordinary conversation rather than formal speech

Question 3

What is slang?

Answer 3

Language used in casual or playful speech

• uses figures of speech
• requires familiarity
• usually intended for humor

Question 4

What is prescriptive grammar?

Answer 4

Structure of language as people think it should be used

• rules and conventions
• school grammar
• formal speech

Question 5

What is descriptive grammar?

Answer 5

Structure of language as it is actually used by speakers and writers

• studied by linguists
• casual setting

Question 6

What is a parenthetic expression?

Answer 6

Group of words that are not essential to the meaning of the sentence and can be omitted without changing the sentence’s meaning

Question 7

What is a restrictive modifier?

Answer 7

Presents information essential to the identity of the noun

-no commas needed

Question 8

What is a nonrestrictive modifier?

Answer 8

Presents info not essential to the identity of the noun

-requires commas

Question 9

When is a dash used?

Answer 9

• too long or too abrupt
• modifiers contain commas
• highlight or emphasize info

Question 10

When are parentheses used?

Answer 10

• asides
• multi sentence explanations
• downplay the info

Question 11

What is the difference between the period and semi colon?

Answer 11

• semi colon suggests close relationship

- period provides distinct separation

Question 12

How do you make a singular noun possessive?

Answer 12

Add ‘s no matter the final consonant

Question 13

How do you make a plural noun possessive?

Answer 13

• Add just apostrophe if plural noun ends in s

- Add ‘s if it does not end in s

Question 14

What are the 3 exceptions to Rule 1?

Answer 14

1. Ancient names (apostrophe only)
2. Archaic phrases (apostrophe only)
3. Pronominal possessives (none)
4. Noun ending in ‘z’ sound (‘ only)