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Why It's OK to Have Bad Spelling and Grammar

Jessica Flanigan author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd

Publishing:28th Feb '25

£17.99

This title is due to be published on 28th February, and will be despatched as soon as possible.

Why It's OK to Have Bad Spelling and Grammar cover

Grammatical errors and orthographic mishaps are often played for laughs, but this subtle sanctioning by the sticklerocracy can have real social consequences too. Attention to prescriptive spelling and grammar rules is insidious and harmful.

As Jessica Flanigan argues in Why It’s OK to Have Bad Spelling and Grammar, grammarianism often maintains hierarchies, entrenches the advantages of privileged groups, and imposes arbitrary barriers to knowledge production and innovation. For example, the stigmatization of bad spelling and grammar disadvantages linguistic minorities, non-native speakers, and people with disabilities. Spelling and grammar norms are also frequently arbitrary and unnecessary. The petty grammandos among us, who cling to pedantic linguistic conventions, are standing in the way of innovative forms of communication and efficient speech, such as the emoji ☺. For these reasons, Flanigan argues that bad spelling and grammar are OK. It’s time to break free from the tyranny of the grammilitia in the name of comprehension and creativity. As long as speakers and writers can effectively communicate to charitable listeners and readers, people shouldn’t care about bad spelling and grammar.

Key Features

  • Explains why spelling tests and spelling bees are counterproductive in achieving literacy and better communication
  • Engages with the history of language policing and the brave anti-grammarian resistance
  • Describes some of the key benefits of linguistic liberalism
  • Proposes a political agenda to resist the sticklerocracy and overthrow a world of word nerds
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“We are surrounded by the grammar police, and for most of my life I have been inclined to surrender peacefully with my hands up. Jessica Flanigan’s vigorous defense of grammatical anarchism is the intervention I didn’t know I needed. This book is essential reading for grammatical sticklers and deviants alike!” -- Matthew Strohl, University of Montana

“Tackling everything from spelling and grammar to sanctions and style, Flanigan provides a fascinating foray into the evolving linguistic landscape of our digital age. An enjoyable and enlightening read!” -- Gregory Robson, Iowa State University

“Jessica Flanigan takes no prisoners in this riposte to linguistic busybodies. She won’t change their minds. Nothing will. But those under their influence, including ordinary teachers who are ‘just trying to help,’ will now think long and hard before correcting a misplaced hyphen. For that, we must thank her. This is a welcome reminder that grammar, spelling, punctuation, and so on, exist to serve humanity, not vice versa. Read and enjoy.” -- Alex Barber, The Open University

ISBN: 9780367333232

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: unknown

264 pages