Monday, February 11, 2008
Grammar Question
One problem with grammar I've always had is when to use well and when to use good. According to Dr. Grammar, "Good is an adjective. It can only modify nouns and pronouns. Well is an adverb. It can only modify verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs." Basically, a person can do something well and give something good. Saying "I did good on my test" should actually be "I did well on my test." However, this rule really isn't as simple as it sounds because there are exceptions. According to Dr. Grammar he also says, "The exception is verbs of sensation in phrases such as 'the pie smells good,' or 'I feel good'. Despite the arguments, this is standard usage. Saying 'the pie smells well' would imply that the pastry in question had a nose." Has anyone else ever found this a hard rule to understand?
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3 comments:
I have trouble with this rule too!
When I'm writing I try really hard to use the correct word, but when I'm speaking I generally don't try as hard.
I have also struggled with when to use good and well. I usually do use the two wrong in my writing and speech and get corrected by someone.
I agree with Sara. When writing i use the correct word, but in speaking i just go with which ever word flows better or pops into my head first.
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