Hi guys! (See below if you object to this intro.) Today I will discuss five English rules that are a bit tricky because they are used differently in different situations. I will use Emmy Favilla's book "A World Without 'Whom'" as a reference for these rules.
Let's jump in!
Italics or Question Marks for Film References?
"Italicize titles of films" except "when they act as a descriptor" (Favilla 94).
Let's go see the movie Moana.
I want a Moana doll.
In the second sentence, Moana is the type of doll wanted, so it is not italicized.
Does the Comma Give You Pause?
There are many ways to use or misuse a comma, but sometimes it comes down to this: if you want people to pause, use a comma (Favilla 102-103).
Consider these two sentences: "Please go." "Please, go." In the second sentence, the comma suggests a pause. In addition, these sentences could have different meanings. The first seems to be asking someone to leave. The second could be asking someone to take their turn.
When to Capitalize Directions
The rule: "Capitalize specific regions such as the East Coast or Northern Utah. Do not capitalize compass directions" (Favilla 91).
Here is an example of compass directions: "Go west until you reach the river."
Begin with a Conjunction?!
Let's start with some examples of conjunctions. The words "and," "but," and "because" are conjunctions. Sometimes, beginning a sentence with a conjunction is ok, but use it only if you feel it is needed (Favilla 136).
Consider this dialogue:
"Do not eat those cookies."
"But I want to!"
The second sentence needs to start with "but" to show the objection.
We all know that in some situations, "guys" means males. But have you ever caught yourself saying "guys" to a group of women? Great news! Favilla says that "guys .... is simply a stand-in for people, gender identity notwithstanding (145).
Luann Abrams, who describes herself as a "trusted and fierce advocate for women in leadership," seems to agree. On her Linkedin page, she points out that "a recent Washington Post article officially deemed the use of guys as gender-neutral, meaning you can call mixed group or group of all women, guys."
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/hey-guys-means-you-ladies-luann-abrams
I, for one, am glad, because I often say things like "What do you guys think?" when I'm not talking to all males.
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