English grammar Quote by Ben Aaronovitch
““the rules of English grammar are largely an artificial construct with little or no bearing on the language as it is spoke.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Rivers of London, 2011, Fantasy Crime
Notes that formal grammar rules are largely artificial and not essential to spoken language.
In simple terms: Grammar rules are often artificial.
Key Takeaway
Question the necessity of strict grammar.
Themes
language
grammar
communication
Mood
analytical
curious
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- teaching English
- editing
- language learning
- creative writing
Key Concepts
linguistics
cognitive science
literature
Questions to Reflect On
- How do grammar rules shape our thinking?
- When is flexibility in language most valuable?
A Different Perspective
Strict rules can hinder natural expression.
![“I believe it is imperative to see modern English grammar as a rich and diverse linguistic system deposited on our [England's] shores 1,500 years ago, and left with us unweakened, though substantially changed by the social and political events of the intervening period.” quote by Robert Burchfield](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/620/robert-burchfield-39223_believe_i-believe-it-is-imperative-to-see-modern_818844.jpg)
