English

  • Doesn't it... ? vs Does not it... ? vs Does it not... ?
    • Doesn't it... ? is better
    • Does not it... ? is ‘wrong’ “unless you’re some old philosopher”
    • Does it not... ?  “it might imply bluntness or that you’re having a hard time believing/understanding”

Allowed to vs. Allowed for Link to heading

  • “allowed for” when talking about making provisions for, including, or taking into account something.
    • “The schedule allowed for a 30-minute break.” (The schedule included or made provision for a 30-minute break.)
    • “Make sure to allow for traffic delays when planning your trip.” (Take into account the possibility of traffic delays.)
  • “allowed to” to indicate that someone has permission or is permitted to do something.
    • “You are allowed to leave early today.” (You have permission to leave early.)
    • “Are children allowed to play in this park?” (Do children have permission to play here?)

Holding up vs. Holding back Link to heading

  • Holding Up: often implies causing a delay or providing support
    • Causing a delay or interruption; “The traffic jam is holding up my commute.”
    • In a more colloquial sense, can mean committing a robbery; “The store was held up by thieves last night.”
    • Supporting or maintaining something in a position; “The scaffolding is holding up the building.”
  • Holding Back: generally suggests restraint or prevention
    • Restraining oneself or someone else, physically or emotionally; “She was holding back tears” or “He held back his anger.”
    • Preventing progress or keeping something from advancing; “Fear of failure is holding him back from pursuing his dreams.”
    • Withholding: not sharing or giving something fully; “He was holding back crucial information.”

Prepositions Link to heading

Pronounce Link to heading

Verb Tenses Link to heading