Mpepefuo are destroying Ghana with their corruption.
Mpepefuo are destroying Ghana with their corruption.
OYOKOBA 10 years ago
The article by Idris is what Ghanaweb should have been about; a place to learn something instead of being dumbing grounds. Kudos Idris, I love it.
Question: I find the name "Ghana Broadcasting Corporation" as very wrong. Sh ... read full comment
The article by Idris is what Ghanaweb should have been about; a place to learn something instead of being dumbing grounds. Kudos Idris, I love it.
Question: I find the name "Ghana Broadcasting Corporation" as very wrong. Shouldn't it read as "Ghanaian Broadcasting Corporation"?
Kojo 10 years ago
Your question is relevant. I wonder if it was spurred by your living in Canada where it is Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.
"Ghana" seems to be a special case. Why do we write "Ghanaian" rather than "Ghanian". We do not ... read full comment
Your question is relevant. I wonder if it was spurred by your living in Canada where it is Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.
"Ghana" seems to be a special case. Why do we write "Ghanaian" rather than "Ghanian". We do not say "Canadaian" even though that country's name ends in -a-.
I can only guess that our founding fathers wanted to make something unique and specifically called for the adjective and noun forms to be written "Ghanaian". I suspected they wanted the same thing for certain of our corporations - Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, Ghana Airways (rather than Ghanaian Airways), etc.
On the other hand, it was called Gold Coast Broadcasting System during the colonial days and changed to Ghana Broadcasting System on independence and later made a corporation on its own. It would have seemed strange to suddenly change to Ghanaian Broadcasting Corporation even if that may be more grammatically correct. Moreover, as a corporate name, it did not need to take a strictly grammatical form. These are just my speculations only. The real reasons may be different.
The Nigerians didn't seem to have had a similar problem since they moved straight to Radio Nigeria and then Voice of Nigeria when they established an internation service...
Maybe someone who knows will tell us why.
And, yes, I agree with you this article is great for ghanaweb.
' and Jesus wept ' 10 years ago
To add insults to injury is the country's name Ghana or 'Gana'? From my history lessons, I was told that the name was picked from the ancient Gana empire. Why was the "h" added, for cosmetic purposes? Why is our currency spel ... read full comment
To add insults to injury is the country's name Ghana or 'Gana'? From my history lessons, I was told that the name was picked from the ancient Gana empire. Why was the "h" added, for cosmetic purposes? Why is our currency spelt with a 'C'/Cedi instead of 'S'/Sidi since we don't have the letter "c" in our vernacular? And the beat goes on.
GLORIA 10 years ago
thanks pepeni. this our education hmmmmmm
thanks pepeni. this our education hmmmmmm
Daniel K. Pryce 10 years ago
"Whom will you share a Coke with?" is still not a very accurate sentence.
Let me explain. "A" and "An" are articles that are used with singular count nouns. For example, "one boy" and "one idea." These two articles should ... read full comment
"Whom will you share a Coke with?" is still not a very accurate sentence.
Let me explain. "A" and "An" are articles that are used with singular count nouns. For example, "one boy" and "one idea." These two articles should therefore not be used with noncount nouns. For example, we should not say "A gold" or "An honesty."
Commonly used noncount nouns include: bacon, beef, bread, butter, candy, cereal, cheese, ice cream, oil, tea, and water. Nonfood examples include air, coal, gasoline, petroleum, rain, and snow. Other examples include equipment, homework, money, pollution, research, and weather.
Of course, some experts argue that some noncount nouns may also qualify as count nouns, but their usage is more informal than formal. In other words, they may be acceptable for an informal platform like Ghanaweb.com, but not acceptable in scholarly publications. In the following sentence, "coffee" is used both as a noncount noun and a count noun: "I want coffee" and "I want a coffee." Note that the latter may be acceptable under certain conditions, but it is to be considered an informal statement.
Back to your sentence: It is better, then, for the Coca-Cola Company to state:
"Whom will you share a bottle of Coke with?" We see from this sentence that the article "a" is more appropriate for the singular count noun "bottle." To say "a Coke" is, technically, incorrect, as Coke is no different from water, which is considered a noncount noun.
KRB 10 years ago
By your account, Daniel, the new sentence may still be incorrect only because it is informal.
But the place where informality may be acceptable is in ad lines.
Moreover "a coke" in the line is not confusing. Everybody w ... read full comment
By your account, Daniel, the new sentence may still be incorrect only because it is informal.
But the place where informality may be acceptable is in ad lines.
Moreover "a coke" in the line is not confusing. Everybody will easily take it as a countable noun as in "a bottle or a can" of coke. It's the same as in "a coffee" only being the shortened form of "a cup of coffee" just as I may also feel for "a beer" even as I am writing this.
The only confusion I find in both lines is that "coke" may also mean "cocain"...
Daniel K. Pryce 10 years ago
KRB,
Thanks for yours. Please note that I am only pointing out to the writer that, if, indeed, he believes that the Coca-Cola ad is grammatically wrong, then his "corrected" version of the ad could not be considered formal ... read full comment
KRB,
Thanks for yours. Please note that I am only pointing out to the writer that, if, indeed, he believes that the Coca-Cola ad is grammatically wrong, then his "corrected" version of the ad could not be considered formal language either. Yes, ads tend to "modify" the English language to generate catchy phrases, and the writer has made a note of that in his piece.
I will definitely not write "a Coke" in a sentence for public consumption, even if informal rules of grammar permit it. Perhaps you have observed that, even for an informal portal such as Ghanaweb.com, I avoid using contractions in my sentences, especially in my articles. My mantra is simple: Always employ a formal style of writing, irrespective of the platform one uses to disseminate the information.
Teacher under tree 10 years ago
With respect, Mr Pryce,you maintain that you avoid using contractions in your sentences, yet twice in your post you have used the word 'ad'. If that is not a contraction (in the form of an abbreviation) then what is?
But y ... read full comment
With respect, Mr Pryce,you maintain that you avoid using contractions in your sentences, yet twice in your post you have used the word 'ad'. If that is not a contraction (in the form of an abbreviation) then what is?
But your errors persist, sir. You expound wisely on the 'stranding' of the preposition. It is indeed distasteful so to do. Yet subsequently you offer us a corrected 'Whom will you share a Coke with?' which is equally unpleasant.
It has clearly escaped your notice that the word 'with' is also a preposition. Yet you have callously abandoned it at the end of your 'corrected' version.
More properly the advertisement should inquire: 'With whom will you share a Coke?'
Respectfully yours ...
Teacher under tree 10 years ago
My apologies, sir. On re-reading I recognized that the second part of my post should have been directed to the author of the article, not your good self.
My apologies, sir. On re-reading I recognized that the second part of my post should have been directed to the author of the article, not your good self.
Kojo 10 years ago
I think Pryce is referring to the fact that he doesn't use contractions in his formal writing especially for public consumption. This doesn't include comments in the forum. Here, everybody, including Daniel, is in a hurry to ... read full comment
I think Pryce is referring to the fact that he doesn't use contractions in his formal writing especially for public consumption. This doesn't include comments in the forum. Here, everybody, including Daniel, is in a hurry to post his comment and the use of contractions furthers the purpose. Moreover, ad may be a contraction but it has become so popular and so used that it may cease to be regarded as a contraction. Some people suggest that the other contraction "advert" should be completely discarded - whether in formal or informal writing.
Your second point is convincing and your suggested sentence sounds grammatically correct. But it doesn't sound "chic" to the commercial ear. Will it work in the long run? Perhaps - if it is repeated often enough.
Teacher under tree 10 years ago
Thanks (another contraction), Kojo.
I am very pleased that my sentence does not sound "chic" to the commercial ear, and will strive to maintain that style of language use.
You wonder if it will work in the long run. I thi ... read full comment
Thanks (another contraction), Kojo.
I am very pleased that my sentence does not sound "chic" to the commercial ear, and will strive to maintain that style of language use.
You wonder if it will work in the long run. I think not; sadly, it has already had its day.
Nanasei 10 years ago
The main purpose in commercials is to catch the attention of customers, ok? Those grammatical " mistakes" are necessarily in advertisement world these days! They work well for businesses. Find things out for yourself!
The main purpose in commercials is to catch the attention of customers, ok? Those grammatical " mistakes" are necessarily in advertisement world these days! They work well for businesses. Find things out for yourself!
GEORGE 10 years ago
Thanks for confirming that there's an error in ad which the writer corrected.
The writer only advised learners to avoid stranding prepositions. With command over the language, you can strand them.
Thanks for confirming that there's an error in ad which the writer corrected.
The writer only advised learners to avoid stranding prepositions. With command over the language, you can strand them.
JOHN 10 years ago
Simple logic will let you know that Coke is sold in bottles/cans. So if somebody says 'buy me Coke' s/he does not expect you to go and buy liquid Coke. The statement is correct without the article.
Simple logic will let you know that Coke is sold in bottles/cans. So if somebody says 'buy me Coke' s/he does not expect you to go and buy liquid Coke. The statement is correct without the article.
KRB 10 years ago
Thanks, teacher Idris, for the lesson in English grammar. Some people may think this is useless but some of us see a refreshing change from the usual fare of Mahama, Akufo-Addo, NDC, NPP, Ewe, Akan, Northerner, etc. on this s ... read full comment
Thanks, teacher Idris, for the lesson in English grammar. Some people may think this is useless but some of us see a refreshing change from the usual fare of Mahama, Akufo-Addo, NDC, NPP, Ewe, Akan, Northerner, etc. on this site.
Maybe you're right that, in a strict grammatical sense, "whom" should replace "who" in the ad line. I am just wondering if the "fault" is from the Ghanaian copy writers since Coca Cola is such an international product coming from a country where English is a first language. It's famous ad line may have come from its international headquarters and not a product of the local Ghanaian office. Will ghanaweb readers resident in the USA confirm if the same ad line is found in that country?
Often, advertisers twist grammar in their quest for a better line. The incorrect grammar strikes you only because you may be a teacher of English. The rest of Ghana won't be bothered. But your point is that your efforts in the classroom may be undermined by such things. I wonder if you've taken this up with your class. What about the ad department of Coca-Cola Ghana Ltd (or is Inc or PLC)?
Is the example of "between you and me" not a special case that cannot be used as a reference point here?
Ok, we all want long life for Ghana but what has Kwame Nkrumah got to do with that and the point of grammar you are pointing out to us?
Pls come back here to join the discussion for the benefit of others too.
kofi 10 years ago
All that grammarians do is to advice and keeping your mind open that is the best way out.?
All that grammarians do is to advice and keeping your mind open that is the best way out.?
Idris Pacas 10 years ago
I strongly believe in his ideologies.
I strongly believe in his ideologies.
Nanasei 10 years ago
Thanks Idris. These days Chauser and Shakespeare's English doesn't make sense in today's Tech world. I'm sure if you have ever visited any social media sites before. Are you gonna correct the type of writings there? Hahaha! T ... read full comment
Thanks Idris. These days Chauser and Shakespeare's English doesn't make sense in today's Tech world. I'm sure if you have ever visited any social media sites before. Are you gonna correct the type of writings there? Hahaha! This is 21st century tech world, and the emphasis is on technology not Queen's language. Language is part of our culture and culture is dynamic. That means, it changes, ok? Besides, Coca Cola commercial is not like giving a speech before the Queen of England. I mean who cares? Once their target customers understand the meaning and patronize, that's it! Africa needs thinking leaders right now not these dead language or grammar which nobody even recognizes. Thanks.
James 10 years ago
I don't know where you live on this troubled planet.If you live in the United States then you have a lot of work to do.This is a nation in which congressmen,Ph.D holders and CNN and other TV anchormen say RETURN BACK instead ... read full comment
I don't know where you live on this troubled planet.If you live in the United States then you have a lot of work to do.This is a nation in which congressmen,Ph.D holders and CNN and other TV anchormen say RETURN BACK instead of RETURN and DIFFERENT THAN instead of different from.You will also notice degree holders and university students writing and saying YOU SHOULD HAVE WENT instead of YOU SHOULD HAVE GONE.You have an uphill task my brother,Daniel
Daniel K. Pryce 10 years ago
James,
You're right about "You should have went" -- it is very common among elementary and high school students!
James,
You're right about "You should have went" -- it is very common among elementary and high school students!
JOHN 10 years ago
You're yourself. Don't be deceived by your views into thinking like that. The argument given here is for academics.
You're yourself. Don't be deceived by your views into thinking like that. The argument given here is for academics.
Mike Adjei 10 years ago
I think this unnecessary argument is only good for African academics.There are more serious socio-economic problems which your so-called academics should solve instead of debating on ENGLISH GRAMMAR.The WHITEMAN is laughing.
I think this unnecessary argument is only good for African academics.There are more serious socio-economic problems which your so-called academics should solve instead of debating on ENGLISH GRAMMAR.The WHITEMAN is laughing.
LONTO-BOY 10 years ago
This is a very educative and impressive article by Idris.
This is a very educative and impressive article by Idris.
Kojo Billy Duncan 10 years ago
I love to read such educative articles.
I love to read such educative articles.
Ceferino 9 years ago
cristal clear
cristal clear
nice penalty removal 9 years ago
rbBTXl I loved your blog post.Really looking forward to read more. Will read on...
rbBTXl I loved your blog post.Really looking forward to read more. Will read on...
good backlinks 9 years ago
Z45QYk I truly appreciate this article.Thanks Again. Fantastic.
Z45QYk I truly appreciate this article.Thanks Again. Fantastic.
Davidson 8 years ago
Well, that's a good analysis on grammar. But one thing everyone should know is that if it is an advert it ought to be informal. Informality makes your audience free at ease, feel the rapport, feel the atmosphere of friendline ... read full comment
Well, that's a good analysis on grammar. But one thing everyone should know is that if it is an advert it ought to be informal. Informality makes your audience free at ease, feel the rapport, feel the atmosphere of friendliness. Drink a coke to spice up the fun! Formality of language will not be a good skill in advertising a soft drink. Every error spotted out in that sentence, ranging from the 'who' to the 'a' is no error at all: it is simply informal. The sentence is correct informal usage. Coca- cola should let it remain so.
Davidson 8 years ago
Well, that's a good analysis on grammar. But one thing everyone should know is that if it is an advert it ought to be informal. Informality makes your audience free at ease, feel the rapport, feel the atmosphere of friendline ... read full comment
Well, that's a good analysis on grammar. But one thing everyone should know is that if it is an advert it ought to be informal. Informality makes your audience free at ease, feel the rapport, feel the atmosphere of friendliness. Drink a coke to spice up the fun! Formality of language will not be a good skill in advertising a soft drink. Every error spotted out in that sentence, ranging from the 'who' to the 'a' is no error at all: it is simply informal. The sentence is correct informal usage. Coca- cola should let it remain so.
Mpepefuo are destroying Ghana with their corruption.
The article by Idris is what Ghanaweb should have been about; a place to learn something instead of being dumbing grounds. Kudos Idris, I love it.
Question: I find the name "Ghana Broadcasting Corporation" as very wrong. Sh ...
read full comment
Your question is relevant. I wonder if it was spurred by your living in Canada where it is Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.
"Ghana" seems to be a special case. Why do we write "Ghanaian" rather than "Ghanian". We do not ...
read full comment
To add insults to injury is the country's name Ghana or 'Gana'? From my history lessons, I was told that the name was picked from the ancient Gana empire. Why was the "h" added, for cosmetic purposes? Why is our currency spel ...
read full comment
thanks pepeni. this our education hmmmmmm
"Whom will you share a Coke with?" is still not a very accurate sentence.
Let me explain. "A" and "An" are articles that are used with singular count nouns. For example, "one boy" and "one idea." These two articles should ...
read full comment
By your account, Daniel, the new sentence may still be incorrect only because it is informal.
But the place where informality may be acceptable is in ad lines.
Moreover "a coke" in the line is not confusing. Everybody w ...
read full comment
KRB,
Thanks for yours. Please note that I am only pointing out to the writer that, if, indeed, he believes that the Coca-Cola ad is grammatically wrong, then his "corrected" version of the ad could not be considered formal ...
read full comment
With respect, Mr Pryce,you maintain that you avoid using contractions in your sentences, yet twice in your post you have used the word 'ad'. If that is not a contraction (in the form of an abbreviation) then what is?
But y ...
read full comment
My apologies, sir. On re-reading I recognized that the second part of my post should have been directed to the author of the article, not your good self.
I think Pryce is referring to the fact that he doesn't use contractions in his formal writing especially for public consumption. This doesn't include comments in the forum. Here, everybody, including Daniel, is in a hurry to ...
read full comment
Thanks (another contraction), Kojo.
I am very pleased that my sentence does not sound "chic" to the commercial ear, and will strive to maintain that style of language use.
You wonder if it will work in the long run. I thi ...
read full comment
The main purpose in commercials is to catch the attention of customers, ok? Those grammatical " mistakes" are necessarily in advertisement world these days! They work well for businesses. Find things out for yourself!
Thanks for confirming that there's an error in ad which the writer corrected.
The writer only advised learners to avoid stranding prepositions. With command over the language, you can strand them.
Simple logic will let you know that Coke is sold in bottles/cans. So if somebody says 'buy me Coke' s/he does not expect you to go and buy liquid Coke. The statement is correct without the article.
Thanks, teacher Idris, for the lesson in English grammar. Some people may think this is useless but some of us see a refreshing change from the usual fare of Mahama, Akufo-Addo, NDC, NPP, Ewe, Akan, Northerner, etc. on this s ...
read full comment
All that grammarians do is to advice and keeping your mind open that is the best way out.?
I strongly believe in his ideologies.
Thanks Idris. These days Chauser and Shakespeare's English doesn't make sense in today's Tech world. I'm sure if you have ever visited any social media sites before. Are you gonna correct the type of writings there? Hahaha! T ...
read full comment
I don't know where you live on this troubled planet.If you live in the United States then you have a lot of work to do.This is a nation in which congressmen,Ph.D holders and CNN and other TV anchormen say RETURN BACK instead ...
read full comment
James,
You're right about "You should have went" -- it is very common among elementary and high school students!
You're yourself. Don't be deceived by your views into thinking like that. The argument given here is for academics.
I think this unnecessary argument is only good for African academics.There are more serious socio-economic problems which your so-called academics should solve instead of debating on ENGLISH GRAMMAR.The WHITEMAN is laughing.
This is a very educative and impressive article by Idris.
I love to read such educative articles.
cristal clear
rbBTXl I loved your blog post.Really looking forward to read more. Will read on...
Z45QYk I truly appreciate this article.Thanks Again. Fantastic.
Well, that's a good analysis on grammar. But one thing everyone should know is that if it is an advert it ought to be informal. Informality makes your audience free at ease, feel the rapport, feel the atmosphere of friendline ...
read full comment
Well, that's a good analysis on grammar. But one thing everyone should know is that if it is an advert it ought to be informal. Informality makes your audience free at ease, feel the rapport, feel the atmosphere of friendline ...
read full comment