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Calling the grammar police

by Kurt
2 replies
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I installed a grammar checker plugin for Firefox and use it to check a few things.

I constantly get these warnings:
Passive voice
Hidden verbs

Any writing experts here that can give me a better explanation for these than the plugin does? And what to do about them?
  • Profile picture of the author HeySal
    Kurt - there is nothing wrong with grammar just because you choose to state something in passive voice or because you have hidden verbs in a sentence.

    A hidden verb means that the program thinks it has a better verb for you to use in your sentence -- which usually also means "more action". Writing active sentences is good for some forms of writing - sales writing for one -- but I know you write about science quite a bit and the active voice can become ludicrous very quickly when writing calls for a more literary and formal element of style.

    Don't worry about it - that contraption will drive you crazy if you let it.
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    Sal
    When the Roads and Paths end, learn to guide yourself through the wilderness
    Beyond the Path

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