Published on
June 25, 2024
by
Gina Rancaño, BA
Revised on
March 21, 2025
The correct phrase is all of a sudden, which means “quickly,” “unexpectedly,” or “at once” (e.g., “All of a sudden, the dog jumped all over me”). “All of the sudden” is an increasingly common error, although there is no grammatical rule that explains why “a sudden” is preferred over “the sudden.”
Examples: All of a sudden or all of the sudden in a sentence
And then all of a sudden, everyone jumped out and screamed, “Surprise!”
And then all of the sudden, everyone jumped out and screamed, “Surprise!”
Published on
June 25, 2024
by
Gina Rancaño, BA
Revised on
March 21, 2025
“I could care less” is a variant of the expression “I couldn’t care less,” which means “I’m not concerned or interested in someone or something.”
Many argue that “I could care less” is grammatically and logically incorrect because the statement conveys that one does care a bit, but it’s possible to care even less.
Despite its literal meaning, “I could care less” has been in use for a long time, and most people would understand it to indicate a lack of interest in something.
Examples: I could care less in a sentenceI could care less about where we go; I just want to eat.
She said she could care less about how the game ended because she had fun either way.
I could care less about what the reviews say; I thought it was a great book.
Published on
June 24, 2024
by
Gina Rancaño, BA
Revised on
March 12, 2025
The correct spelling is always separate, not seperate.
“Separate” is a word that can function as a verb or an adjective. As a verb, its primary definition is “to divide into different parts or groups.” When used as an adjective, it describes something that is distinct or a unit by itself.
Examples: Separate as a verb
Examples: Separate as an adjective
I need to separate the donations based on where they’re getting shipped to.
These toys must go into separate compartments.
Let’s separate the students by age group.
We will take separate cars to avoid being cramped.
We separated the room by placing a curtain down the middle.
We had to buy a separate piece of furniture to complete the look.
NoteSeparate can also function as a noun that refers to individual articles of clothing that can be worn in different combinations (e.g., “She packed separates for her trip to change up her look”). However, this usage is rare.
Published on
June 13, 2024
by
Gina Rancaño, BA
Revised on
March 12, 2025
Accidently is a common misspelling of “accidentally,” which means “unintentionally.”
Although “accidently” has been used for centuries and can sometimes still be found in published works, it is recommended to use “accidentally,” as the former is now typically viewed as an error. The QuillBot grammar check tool can help you catch this and other errors.
Examples: Accidently vs accidentally in a sentencePreferred: I accidentally bought the wrong brand and now I have to make a return.
Less common: I accidently bought the wrong brand and now I have to make a return.
Published on
May 31, 2024
by
Gina Rancaño, BA
Revised on
March 12, 2025
Each other is the correct spelling (e.g., “They love each other very much”). Eachother (with no space) is incorrect and should be avoided in your writing.
Examples: Eachother or each other in a sentence
My brother and I always buy each other souvenirs when we travel.
My brother and I always buy eachother souvenirs when we travel.
Published on
May 25, 2024
by
Gina Rancaño, BA
Revised on
March 21, 2025
The correct spelling of vacuum includes one “c,” two “u’s,” and ends with an “m.” That means “vacume,” “vaccum,” and “vaccuum” are incorrect spellings. As a noun, “vacuum” refers to a space devoid of matter or a device used for cleaning. As a verb, it refers to the act of using this device.
Examples: Vacuum in a sentenceAs an aspiring astronaut, I’m fascinated by the vacuum of space.
I’m going to the store to buy a new vacuum cleaner.
My mom asked me to vacuum the house before the guests arrive.
Published on
May 10, 2024
by
Gina Rancaño, BA
Revised on
March 21, 2025
E-mail and email both mean “electronic mail.” Both are acceptable, but “email” has become the more popular variant. However, some style guides and publications still prefer “e-mail.” When deciding which one to use, follow any applicable guidelines and remain consistent throughout your writing.
Examples: E-mail or email in a sentencePlease send me an e-mail/email if you have any questions.
Published on
April 16, 2024
by
Gina Rancaño, BA
Revised on
March 21, 2025
I before e except after c is one of English’s most popular mnemonic spelling rules. However, while it applies to certain words, such as “receive,” “deceive,” and “conceit,” it disregards a whole range of others, including “science,” “glacier,” and “neighbor.”
There are more English words that include “ie” rather than “ei” (even after “c”). Thus, strictly adhering to the “i before e except after c” rule may cause more spelling mistakes than not.
