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"'The Frugal Editor: Do-It-Yourself Editing Secrets for Authors' is a complete course of instruction under one cover." ~ Jim Cox Editor-in-Chief Midwest Book Review


Sunday, January 16, 2011

Do You Avoid Certain Words Because of Uncertainy About Style Choices

Ahhh, the difference between grammar rules and style choice! I've caught myself avoiding certain usage and certain words because of uncertainty. That's why when I see a choice made by a respected journal, magazine or newspaper I latch onto it and take it has my own.  So, today may I present a word I will no longer feel uncomfortable about using again? May I present, Ta da!

CATERCORNER

I'm trusting The New Yorker, January 3, 2011 edition.  Page. 26. I'll won't even allow myself to wish they had chosen Kittycorner. There has to be a reason--a good one--for their choice. And I'm too busy to do the research again!

And yes, this will probably go into my next booklet after Great Little Last-Minute Editing Tips for Writers: The Ultimate Frugal Booklet for Avoiding Word Trippers and Crafting Gatekeeper-Perfect Copy.

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Carolyn Howard-Johnson edits, consults. and speaks on issues of publishing. Find her The Frugal Editor: Put Your Best Book Forward to Avoid Humiliation and Ensure Success (How To Do It Frugally series of book for writers). Learn more about her other authors' aids at www.howtodoitfrugally.com/writers_books.htm , where writers will find lists and other helps including Great Little Last-Minute Editing Tips on the Resources for Writers page. She blogs on all things publishing (not just editing!) at her Sharing with Writers blog. She tweets writers' resources at www.twitter.com/frugalbookpromo . Please tweet this post to your followers. We all need a little help with editing. (-:

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