Whose or Who’s? Possessives and Contractions

whose or who's? owlThe question is often asked: should it be whose or who’s? Whose and who’s are often confused, even by native English speakers. So what is the difference between ‘who’s and ‘whose’ and how do you know which to use?

The difference is simple: ‘whose’ is the word we use to ask who owns something, while who’s is simply a shortening of ‘who is’. Contracted forms of words are rarely used in formal writing but they are often used in speech. The words ‘whose’ and ‘who’s’ are homophones, which means they sound the same. This is why the confusion arises. Read on to explore more about the usage of these words. Continue reading

Who or Whom? How to Know Which to Use

Who or whom? Owl

What is the difference between ‘who’ and ‘whom’ – and how do you know which to use? This grammar question has stumped many native English speakers, so it is no surprise that non-native speakers find it difficult.

‘Whom’ is used to refer to the object of a preposition or verb. But how does this work with real life examples? Read on for an explanation of the grammar behind ‘who’ and ‘whom’. We’ll explore common misconceptions surrounding the ‘who or whom’ debate and provide useful example sentences showing when to use ‘who’ and ‘whom’ – and when it’s a personal choice. Continue reading

Could Globish Replace English After Brexit?

Globish - What is Globish?

Former Italian prime minister Mario Monti said that the English language should be ‘upgraded’ after Britain leaves the EU. It is clear that Monti thinks regular English is unsuitable for use on the world stage. But how should English be upgraded? Perhaps the answer is to use Globish.

English has a million words but only a fraction of these are used on a day to day basis. It makes sense to concentrate on the most useful language when communicating internationally. But what exactly is Globish – and how could it replace English? Continue reading

English in International Trade: Britain’s Secret Weapon Post Brexit? 

English in International Trade: Britain's Secret Weapon Post Brexit? With Brexit on the horizon, there are many discussions about the future of international trade. Former Italian prime minister Mario Monti has declared that English is ‘one of the very best products of Britain’ and that it should continue to be the main language of Europe for purposes of trade. He also said that Europe should ‘upgrade’ English after the UK’s departure from the EU to ‘increase its competitiveness’ on the world stage. The importance of English in international trade is obvious – so could this be Britain’s secret weapon post-Brexit? Continue reading

Cambridge Assessment Launches New English Language Test: Linguaskill

taking an online test - Cambridge Linguaskill language testCambridge Assessment English (previously known as Cambridge English Language Assessment) has launched a new simplified test called Linguaskill. This is a multilevel online test, which can provide personalised results within 12 hours. Linguaskill can test the writing, reading and listening skills of students from beginner A1 level up to advanced C1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Continue reading

Writing a Christmas Card in English

Writing a Christmas card in English is one of the top December activities for EFL learners. At this time of year, many people are thinking of writing to loved ones and friends to wish them a merry Christmas or a happy holiday season. But what should you write in the card?

Read on for a discussion of traditional Christmas messages and images, along with advice on how to write a Christmas card in English using appropriate greetings, messages and closing words. Continue reading

The Royal Wedding – Congratulations to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle!

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle - Wedding Vocabulary

The wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle took place on Saturday 19th May at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. The fifth in line to the British throne became engaged to the American former actress in November last year and the union of Harry and Meghan has brought Britain and America together – although they remain two nations divided by a common language! Join us for an exploration of wedding vocabulary and words related to engagements as we await the royal wedding. Continue reading

Happy Thanksgiving! Now Get Ready for Black Friday!

Thanksgiving dinnerThanksgiving is a public holiday celebrated on the last Thursday of November in the United States of America. This special day originated as a harvest festival to celebrate the crops produced in the Pilgrims’ first harvest. Throughout the USA, people normally attend parades and sporting events and enjoying a special meal with friends and family. Although Thanksgiving is not a holiday in the UK, many people still celebrate the harvest festival at this time of year. Join us to explore Thanksgiving and learn more about its cultural significance and related vocabulary. Continue reading

Are We Losing the Gradable Adverbs of British Understatement? Quite Possibly…

An English academic has claimed that many English adverbs are falling out of common usage. The classic understatement of English speakers means our language has always been peppered with phrases such as ‘rather difficult’, ‘quite likely’, ‘awfully expensive’ and ‘terribly sad’.

These trademark English expressions are under threat as we are doing away with gradable adverbs. Not only this, many traditional English words are being eroded by an influx of Americanisms. So does this mean the end for gradable adverbs and classic British understatement? Quite possibly… Continue reading

How to Choose the Best Model Essays?

Many people might question why anyone would ever approach online custom writing company for help. But there are many reasons, including English language challenges and confusion over academic requirements. Universities can also have formatting and stylistic demands that many international students are not familiar with, which is why students might consider searching for model essays to give them guidance. Continue reading