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Pet Peeves. 1. Using casual spellings and symbols in formal writing.
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1. Using casual spellings and symbols in formal writing It’s fine to use casual spellings in casual situations. Who cares if you write cuz instead of because in an e-mail note to a friend? Who would spell out “and”while taking notes at a lecture when it is so much faster to use the “&” sign?
In formal writing, however, you should spell words with their traditional spelling. Your grocery list would be considered casual. A letter to an editor would be considered formal. (Your essay you’re writing right now would be considered formal.)
Formal WritingExamples • Write because, not cause or becuz or cuz. • Write through, not thru. • Write okay, not O.K. • Write light, not lite. • Write money, not $$$$. Remember: When in doubt, write it out!
2. Using “alright” instead of “all right” • If you finished your cereal you might say, “All done!” • You wouldn’t say, “Aldone!” • If you were getting ready to go somewhere with someone, you might ask, “All set?” You wouldn’t ask, “Alset?”
Using the Same Logic • If you are agreeing with someone you should write, “All right,” not “Alright.” All right is two words, not one. There is no such word as “alright.” It is not a proper word.