Banging on about spelling and grammar

[soundtracker]

Been doing a bit of research over the last couple of days with a view to pepping up my website, and frankly, it is absolutely amazing that the common grammar errors that we are constantly highlighting on here, are still common place on what would be regarded as good quality websites! The most common ones are to, too and two, and the perennial YOUR and YOU'RE. :muppet: :bang:

[rob1963]

The other one which must also be up there is THERE, THEIR & THEY'RE

:bang:

P.S. Peter - If you want to see a website with 100% perfect spelling & grammar, you need look no further than my own site...as I'm sure you already knew.

:D :D :D

[Vectis]

Pet hate #1 :bang:

[soundtracker]

The other one which must also be up there is THERE, THEIR & THEY'RE

:bang:

P.S. Peter - If you want to see a website with 100% perfect spelling & grammar, you need look no further than my own site...as I'm sure you already knew.

:D :D :D

Didn't actually spot any of those Rob, but know from where you are coming!

[robbiedj]

I recently had another spam e-mail of the "free listing on our wonderful directory" type.

I always check the site, just in case it's worth a trial, so I popped along.

The first page had so many spelling mistakes and such bad grammar, I went no further. :eek:

No way do I want to be associated with such a sloppy site. It takes very little effort to spell-check and proof-read, so they must not be bothered with their image at all. :bang:

[womble]

People use 'of' instead of 'have' a lot, not so much on this site though. I do get bugged by the use of the word 'done' instead of 'did' - is that a regional thing?

"I done a gig last night" *shudder*

[Vectis]

The one that makes me want to reach through the screen and punch someone is the use of 'brought' instead of 'bought'


(runs away screaming.....)

[Corabar Entertainment]

All of the above.... and rogue apostrophes everywhere!!!

[Shaun]

Too many people have no desire to better themselves. In this day and age with online spell checkers readily available etc, there's absolutely no excuse for not trying. It's one thing having a problem with spelling and grammar (I have one), but it's another to not care about improving. God only knows how some people converse with their clients.

If they want to come across as thick what can we do? More fool them!

^^ That may be harsh, but at least it's honest. ^^

[NKR]

The one that makes me want to reach through the screen and punch someone is the use of 'brought' instead of 'bought'


(runs away screaming.....)

That drives me completely bonkers.

[funkymook]

P.S. Peter - If you want to see a website with 100% perfect spelling & grammar, you need look no further than my own site...as I'm sure you already knew.
:D :D :D

Cue everybody accessing your site to try and spot an error! :D

The ones I've noticed recently on some DJ websites are small 'i' instead of 'I' (as in 'i am').
Too many spaces after or before punctuation , like that.Or like this.

Surely even with a brief read through people should be able to see it looks wrong!


Wonder if there's a market for a website proof reader - from what I've seen recently there wouldn't be a shortage of work!

[Shaun]

Cue everybody accessing your site to try and spot an error! :D



I'm sure there are plenty on mine. When it was first done I had Marc J proof read it for me and I was really embarrassed by how many obvious errors there were. We got them all sorted but I've updated things since then and nobody has proof read it.

I honestly would appreciate people pointing out my errors.

[Vectis]

Wonder if there's a market for a website proof reader - from what I've seen recently there wouldn't be a shortage of work!

In my experience the types of websites that tend to be full of errors also tend to be of the DIY variety, quite often hosted on free or might-as-well-be-free services.

So the chances of most of them coughing for a professional read through are pretty slim, let alone paying for remedial action.

[Mark Wild]

In my experience the types of websites that tend to be full of errors also tend to be of the DIY variety, quite often hosted on free or might-as-well-be-free services.

So the chances of most of them coughing for a professional read through are pretty slim, let alone paying for remedial action.

You don't earn money from designing websites by any chance, do you?

[Shaun]

You don't earn money from designing websites by any chance, do you?

I completely agree with Martin....and I don't earn a penny from designing websites. :P

[Mark Wild]

I completely agree with Martin....and I don't earn a penny from designing websites. :P

My point is the fact it's a sweeping statement really, the grammar and spelling on a DIY website is only as good as the person inputting it. Someone with a PHD in English Language may design their own website and it would read a damn sight better than if young Rowley made one. :D

[Vectis]

My point is the fact it's a sweeping statement really

Mark ... re-read my post and it clearly uses (and highlights) the word tend more than once :) This was not a swipe at DIY disco websites. My own disco website is DIY.

I can almost guarantee you that I've looked at and reviewed FAR more websites than most - not just discos but literally thousands of other entertainment-related sites and this statement isn't confined to DJs. There's plenty more :muppet: s out there who spend 100 times more on their yellow pages entry than their website yet I know which one, given the right focus, could be most effective for them. :cool:

[funkymook]

In my experience the types of websites that tend to be full of errors also tend to be of the DIY variety, quite often hosted on free or might-as-well-be-free services.

So the chances of most of them coughing for a professional read through are pretty slim, let alone paying for remedial action.

I agree - wasn't being 100% serious. Can you imagine cold calling someone to point out their site is a bit crap and then expecting them to pay you for the privilage! :D

[Shaun]

I just want to publicly thank funkymook who took the time to give a quick look through parts of my website and highlighted some errors that I'd never have noticed. It really is appreciated. Thank you. :beer1: :beer1: :)

[Mark Wild]

Mark ... re-read my post and it clearly uses (and highlights) the word tend more than once :) This was not a swipe at DIY disco websites. My own disco website is DIY.

I can almost guarantee you that I've looked at and reviewed FAR more websites than most - not just discos but literally thousands of other entertainment-related sites and this statement isn't confined to DJs. There's plenty more :muppet: s out there who spend 100 times more on their yellow pages entry than their website yet I know which one, given the right focus, could be most effective for them. :cool:

Just defending my corner as a DIY'er :p

[paulg]

The other one which must also be up there is THERE, THEIR & THEY'RE

:bang:

P.S. Peter - If you want to see a website with 100% perfect spelling & grammar, you need look no further than my own site...as I'm sure you already knew.

:D :D :D

I spotted at least 4 errors

[Vectis]

I just want to publicly thank funkymook who took the time to give a quick look through parts of my website and highlighted some errors that I'd never have noticed. It really is appreciated. Thank you. :beer1: :beer1: :)


I agree - wasn't being 100% serious. Can you imagine cold calling someone to point out their site is a bit crap and then expecting them to pay you for the privilage! :D

Hmmm.... I'm sure if, for example, you'd spotted say 5 errors on Shaun's site, dropped him an email to tell him so and provide 1 as a carrot for free, he might have been persuaded to part with the price of a pint for the other 4 :D

It's a bit of a risky strategy because you need to do the work upfront with no guarantee of uptake.

Could be worth a punt though if you have a quiet afternoon... :beer1:

[rob1963]

I spotted at least 4 errors

:jawdrop:

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I bet you can't find any errors on my site Martin...:sj:

[funkymook]

I bet you can't find any errors on my site Martin...:sj:

It'll cost you to find out! :D

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

It'll cost you to find out! :D

Confusion reigns...

I meant Vectis Martin, as he is my designer and proof reader. :D

[funkymook]

Confusion reigns...

I meant Vectis Martin, as he is my designer and proof reader. :D

OK - I'll keep quiet about what I've just spotted then :zip:

[Vectis]

OK - I'll keep quiet about what I've just spotted then :zip:

:sofa:

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

OK - I'll keep quiet about what I've just spotted then :zip:

Go on - embarrass him. :D

[CRAZY K]

Been doing a bit of research over the last couple of days with a view to pepping up my website, and frankly, it is absolutely amazing that the common grammar errors that we are constantly highlighting on here, are still common place on what would be regarded as good quality websites! The most common ones are to, too and two, and the perennial YOUR and YOU'RE. :muppet: :bang:

Absolutely agree Pete--if your attracting Corporate work/ high net worth individuals there is a fair chance you are in communication with educated individuals who would wince at some of the mistakes---and move on elsewhere:eek:

On the other hand lower down the market it occurs to me that you may well find your site being viewed by individuals who dont actually notice or realise the mistakes and therefore are ignorant of these errors themselves---so carry on regardless;)

As fas as I know our sites read reasonably well.

[Corabar Entertainment]

On the other hand lower down the market it occurs to me that you may well find your site being viewed by individuals who dont actually notice or realise the mistakes and therefore are ignorant of these errors themselves---so carry on regardless;) It could even be a selling point!

If you've made a common spelling mistake, someone searching on google may make the same mistake and land on your page, because it will be one of the few that will match the search!

:lol:

[funkymook]

Go on - embarrass him. :D

Thought I had a couple but the text on my laptop was set to large which threw some of the formatting out - double checked on my Mac and it all looks good - apart from the 350 occasions of 'Soiltaire'! :eek:

[CRAZY K]

It could even be a selling point!

If you've made a common spelling mistake, someone searching on google may make the same mistake and land on your page, because it will be one of the few that will match the search!

:lol:

Exactly Angela, when are you going to introduce some schoolboy errors on your site to boost enquiries?

:Laugh: :Laugh: :Laugh: :Laugh: :Laugh: :Laugh: :Laugh: :Laugh: :Laugh:

[robbiedj]

All of the above.... and rogue apostrophes everywhere!!!

You just picked up on one of Carol's favourite complaints, the aberrant apostrophe.

[Megamix]

I worked for a manager who was pedantic about grammar and one who was dyslexic - guess who was the best boss - although its wise to check your public presentation, some people may be poor with grammar/spelling but that may be their only weakness.

[Alchemy]

The other one which must also be up there is THERE, THEIR & THEY'RE

:bang:

P.S. Peter - If you want to see a website with 100% perfect spelling & grammar, you need look no further than my own site...as I'm sure you already knew.

:D :D :D

Found a few on the first page Rob ;)

Established in 1984, Rob James Entertainment supplies mobile discos & quiz nights in Surrey. We're passionate about what we do and will tailor our service to your exact requirements. With about 10,000 songs, our music covers all tastes. We can supply many testimonials and can visit you to discuss your requirements. Our DJs are full time professionals, rates are competitive and all bookings are confirmed in writing. We are fully insured and PAT (portable appliance) tested. Occasions we cater for include weddings, anniversaries & most birthdays. Please see our site for details & prices, then use the contact page to get in touch. You are assured of a prompt reply, as we answer most emails within a few hours.



Recent Customer Feedback (Originals Available):
"Debra and I both wanted to say a huge thank you for all your hard work on the night. We thought you did a great job and were very accommodating and helpful to us." (full stop should be outside quotation marks)Wedding, Cobham.

"Thank you very much for a great set on Friday. We all had a fantastic time and the party was a great success." 40th Birthday, Worcester Park.

"We were particularly impressed with the fact that you played many, if not all of the songs on our request list, and when we requested a song you played it straight away. (closing quotation mark missing) Wedding, Wokingham.

"Thank you for providing a fantastic disco for us and our guests at our wedding reception. We had a fab night and the dancefloor was always busy, which was just what I wanted!" Wedding, Redhill.

"Thanks for providing the wonderful music at our wedding. We enjoyed dancing the night away & I would be delighted to recommend your services, should this be helpful to you." (full stop should be outside quotation marks) Wedding, Leatherhead.


Copyright © 2005-2010 Rob James Entertainment. All rights reserved.

[Vectis]

If you want to see a website with 100% perfect spelling & grammar, you need look no further than my own site


Found a few on the first page Rob ;)


In Rob's defence, he didn't mention punctuation errors :p

[Alchemy]

In Rob's defence, he didn't mention punctuation errors :p

"That's true", he said (as he banged his head against the immovable object {wall}) :D

[soundtracker]

Found a few on the first page Rob ;)

Established in 1984, Rob James Entertainment supplies mobile discos & quiz nights in Surrey. We're passionate about what we do and will tailor our service to your exact requirements. With about 10,000 songs, our music covers all tastes. We can supply many testimonials and can visit you to discuss your requirements. Our DJs are full time professionals, rates are competitive and all bookings are confirmed in writing. We are fully insured and PAT (portable appliance) tested. Occasions we cater for include weddings, anniversaries & most birthdays. Please see our site for details & prices, then use the contact page to get in touch. You are assured of a prompt reply, as we answer most emails within a few hours.



Recent Customer Feedback (Originals Available):
"Debra and I both wanted to say a huge thank you for all your hard work on the night. We thought you did a great job and were very accommodating and helpful to us." (full stop should be outside quotation marks)Wedding, Cobham.

"Thank you very much for a great set on Friday. We all had a fantastic time and the party was a great success." 40th Birthday, Worcester Park.

"We were particularly impressed with the fact that you played many, if not all of the songs on our request list, and when we requested a song you played it straight away. (closing quotation mark missing) Wedding, Wokingham.

"Thank you for providing a fantastic disco for us and our guests at our wedding reception. We had a fab night and the dancefloor was always busy, which was just what I wanted!" Wedding, Redhill.

"Thanks for providing the wonderful music at our wedding. We enjoyed dancing the night away & I would be delighted to recommend your services, should this be helpful to you." (full stop should be outside quotation marks) Wedding, Leatherhead.


Copyright © 2005-2010 Rob James Entertainment. All rights reserved.

Actually this is a bit of a grey area, as Rob is reproducing what a person has actually said, his punctuation is correct.

[Vectis]

It could even be a selling point!

If you've made a common spelling mistake, someone searching on google may make the same mistake and land on your page, because it will be one of the few that will match the search!

:lol:

Not really.... Google is good at "seeing through" spelnig mistooks.

The number of people who've come to me after searching 'Isle of White' you wouldn't believe :)




Actually this is a bit of a grey area, as Rob is reproducing what a person has actually said, his punctuation is correct.

Tsch!

"as as", surely? :p

[soundtracker]

Tsch!

"as as", surely? :p

Whoosh! straight over my head! I've told you before, don't call me surely!

[Alchemy]

Actually this is a bit of a grey area, as Rob is reproducing what a person has actually said, his punctuation is correct.

"Maybe so," he replied, but the missing quotation mark isn't grey :p

[soundtracker]

"Maybe so," he replied, but the missing quotation mark isn't grey :p

Which may well be the reason that I passed no comment on it.........

[Excalibur]

People use 'of' instead of 'have' a lot, not so much on this site though. I do get bugged by the use of the word 'done' instead of 'did' - is that a regional thing?

"I done a gig last night" *shudder*

You what? :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :confused: :confused: :confused: :confused: And just where have you been reading? It's a regular mistake here, and guaranteed to send me into a fit of the screaming abdabs. :mad:

[DeckstarDeluxe]

I really, dont see what, the issue is, with picking, faults in peoples, grammer? :)

[Excalibur]

I really, dont see what, the issue is, with picking, faults in peoples, grammer? :)

In the eyes of some on here, ( me for one ), it's a case for bringing back the death penalty. ;)

[simon1969]

In the eyes of some on here, ( me for one ), it's a case for bringing back the death penalty. ;)

Oh dear what is your penalty for murder then :) ????

[Excalibur]

Oh dear what is your penalty for murder then :) ????

Making them read " The wit and Wisdom of Max G". :D :D :D :D :D

[Vectis]

Making them read " The wit and Wisdom of Max G". :D :D :D :D :D


:sofa:

I'd sooner listen to Vogon Poetry :eek:

[soundtracker]

I really, dont see what, the issue is, with picking, faults in peoples, grammer? :)

Is this attempted humour, or a cry for help?

[Corabar Entertainment]

Is this attempted humour, or a cry for help?Given the rest of the post, Pete, I'd definitely say the former!

[DJMaxG]

I come across a few websites, now and again, with spelling/punctuation errors.


All of the above.... and rogue apostrophes everywhere!!!

at least their apostrophe key on the keyboard isnt stuck down :o


apart from the 350 occasions of 'Soiltaire'! :eek:

This is a common "error" made. I know someone and their website has the persons first name mentioned about 5 times in the same paragraph. It is used as a reference for every point.


I really, dont see what, the issue is, with picking, faults in peoples, grammer? :)

Do you think that poor spellings, and bad punctuation and grammer is particularly appealing to a customer?


Making them read " The wit and Wisdom of Max G". :D :D :D :D :D

Fortunately it is Free to you, Peter ;)

[Excalibur]

Given the rest of the post, Pete, I'd definitely say the former!

I'd have to go with my mate Francis on this one.

Francis Urquhart: You might well think that. I couldn't possibly comment

[Corabar Entertainment]

House of Cards?

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

This is a common "error" made.


It's a common error is it Max? Since when did you become either a web designer or an expert in SEO?

Oh, that's right, you are neither and are just talking out of your backside again.

[funkymook]

It's a common error is it Max? Since when did you become either a web designer or an expert in SEO?

Oh, that's right, you are neither and are just talking out of your backside again.



apart from the 350 occasions of 'Soiltaire'! :eek:


This is a common "error" made. I know someone and their website has the persons first name mentioned about 5 times in the same paragraph. It is used as a reference for every point.

Actually it was a joke, not a criticism - I was pretending Solitaire was spelt as Soiltaire throughout the website as I couldn't find any errors at all - obviously too subtle for some!

[DJMaxG]

It's a common error is it Max? Since when did you become either a web designer or an expert in SEO?

I have never claimed to be an expert. A "common error" is something that is noticable to the average eye. You only made that remark because the previous post was aimed at your website, we both know that. There was no reason for you to take it personally whatsoever.


Actually it was a joke, not a criticism - I was pretending Solitaire was spelt as Soiltaire throughout the website as I couldn't find any errors at all - obviously too subtle for some!

I was referring to words being repeated constantly, as mentioned in my previous post, not the spelling specifically.

[soundtracker]

I have never claimed to be an expert. A "common error" is something that is noticable to the average eye. You only made that remark because the previous post was aimed at your website, we both know that. There was no reason for you to take it personally whatsoever.



I was referring to words being repeated constantly, as mentioned in my previous post, not the spelling specifically.

Some NOTICEABLE like spelling NOTICEABLE wrong you mean?

[Vectis]

Some NOTICEABLE like spelling NOTICEABLE wrong you mean?

I think you meant 'incorrectly' :sofa: :D

[funkymook]

I was referring to words being repeated constantly, as mentioned in my previous post, not the spelling specifically.


As I said before, the joke was obviously too subtle, so apologies to anyone who didn't get it - I'll stick to farce and slapstick in the future :clown: :banana:

Would really appreciate it if you didn't quote me again to make a point about other people on the forum - things can so easily be misunderstood when taken out of context. :)

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Don't worry Martin, we ignore Max most of the time....:sj:

[soundtracker]

I think you meant 'incorrectly' :sofa: :D

No just WRONG:banana:

[rob1963]

Found a few on the first page Rob ;)

Recent Customer Feedback (Originals Available):
"Debra and I both wanted to say a huge thank you for all your hard work on the night. We thought you did a great job and were very accommodating and helpful to us." (full stop should be outside quotation marks)Wedding, Cobham.

"We were particularly impressed with the fact that you played many, if not all of the songs on our request list, and when we requested a song you played it straight away. (closing quotation mark missing) Wedding, Wokingham.

"Thanks for providing the wonderful music at our wedding. We enjoyed dancing the night away & I would be delighted to recommend your services, should this be helpful to you." (full stop should be outside quotation marks) Wedding, Leatherhead.


As far as I'm aware, everything inside the quote marks is what the client said in their card or email, and the full stop is part of that. Therefore, the full stop should be within the quote marks.

Thank you for mentioning the missing closing quote marks on one of the recent customer comments, and I will get this amended.

I'd just like to point out that the things you picked up on do NOT relate to spelling or grammar, so as far as I'm aware, my previous comment that my site has 100% perfect spelling & grammar is still correct.


In Rob's defence, he didn't mention punctuation errors :p

Indeed!


Actually this is a bit of a grey area, as Rob is reproducing what a person has actually said, his punctuation is correct.

Correct!

[Corabar Steve]

I'd just like to point out that the things you picked up on do NOT relate to spelling or grammar, so as far as I'm aware, my previous comment that my site has 100% perfect spelling & grammar is still correct.
That's as may be, but I believe it does contain an inaccuracy.



With about 10,000 songs, our music covers all tastes
Do you have any tracks that cover Black Metal, Psychobilly, or Garage Punk? Just 3 genres that artists that I like cover, therefore making them to my taste. Thus the "all" part of that statement is blatantly wrong :sj:http://planetsmilies.net/vicious-smiley-1763.gif (http://planetsmilies.net)

[rob1963]

Do you have any tracks that cover Black Metal, Psychobilly, or Garage Punk? Just 3 genres that artists that I like cover, therefore making them to my taste. Thus the "all" part of that statement is blatantly wrong :sj:http://planetsmilies.net/vicious-smiley-1763.gif (http://planetsmilies.net)

To be honest, I have no idea whether I have any Black metal, Psychobilly or Garage Punk, but even if I don't, that's irrelevant to the point I was making, which is that my site has no errors with SPELLING or GRAMMAR.

:p

[robbiedj]

Do you have any tracks that cover Black Metal, Psychobilly, or Garage Punk? Just 3 genres that artists that I like cover, therefore making them to my taste. Thus the "all" part of that statement is blatantly wrong :sj:http://planetsmilies.net/vicious-smiley-1763.gif (http://planetsmilies.net)

Just give him a few examples on your request list and he will have on the night.

Rob is a professional, you know.

[rob1963]

Just give him a few examples on your request list and he will have on the night.

Rob is a professional, you know.

Exactly!

:thumbsup:

[DeckstarDeluxe]

Just give him a few examples on your request list and he will have on the night.

Rob is a professional, you know.

No doubt about that..

A professional what though? ;)

[rob1963]

No doubt about that..

A professional what though? ;)

Easy, Neil!

:p

[Excalibur]

Do you have any tracks that cover Black Metal, Psychobilly, or Garage Punk? Just 3 genres that artists that I like cover, therefore making them to my taste.


Steve, I must urge you to read the small print:

" In the unfortunate case of the requested tracks being unavailable, the management reserve the right to substitute them with tracks of equal or greater quality. This in no way affects your statutory rights".

Fairly standard clause, and one which I thought we all had in our T&C's. :confused: :confused:

[rob1963]

Steve, I must urge you to read the small print:

" In the unfortunate case of the requested tracks being unavailable, the management reserve the right to substitute them with tracks of equal or greater quality. This in no way affects your statutory rights".

Fairly standard clause, and one which I thought we all had in our T&C's. :confused: :confused:

Peter...you HAVE been checking my website closely.

Well spotted!

:thumbsup:

[Alchemy]

Hi Rob,

How many people are there in your management team? :D

[rob1963]

Hi Rob,

How many people are there in your management team? :D

Well, if I can get another one...that'll make two!

:D :D :D

[Alchemy]

Well, if I can get another one...that'll make two!

:D :D :D

Shouldn't this read 'the management reserves the right to substitute them' then? :)

[rob1963]

Shouldn't this read 'the management reserves the right to substitute them' then? :)

If that phrase really was on my website, you'd be completely right!

:D

[Excalibur]

Shouldn't this read 'the management reserves the right to substitute them' then? :)

Respect mate. I find myself banged to rights, since Rob doesn't have a partner in crime. :bowdown: