Incorrect English Phrases

Question

I have just been reading the BBC and found this gem.

That would leave Cesc Fabregas, who himself has

"himself' here is completely redundant.

The phrase I personally, is used a lot in English. It's wrong ! I me myself personally don't like it.

I personally have never been to Guatemala NO ! I have never been to Guatemala.

Also so many people, again on BCC radio, are using the word sat instead of sitting.

I was sat next to Tom. NO ! I sat next to Tom, or I was sitting next to Tom.

Great post. Thank you! - 0095ca4c, Jun 24, 2012

Answer 1

There's no doubt about it. The standards of the BBC have been deteriorating year on year.

Answer 2

You read the BBC?? Surely mistakes in English usage by newscasters cannot be attributed to the broadcast organization itself. Consider Howard Cosell. Certainly, many people would say "I personally ...." when meaning to say, "Personally, I ... " just as they would say, "I only want to help." when they mean "I want only to help." Picking at such mistakes is a waste of time and energy. There is only one rule for everyday language usage - the message must convey the correct intent or meaning. I.e., if you understand it, it is okay; if you are not sure what it means or need to think twice (or more) to figure it out, it is not okay.

oh you right is good I know now what you say is the way. - Stig345, Jun 25, 2012

and split infinative no is problem but can say now - Stig345, Jun 25, 2012

Now i no conjugate verb just say word is all necessary. I write no lawyer legal opinion tomorrow because correct write or say not import - Stig345, Jun 25, 2012

Answer 3

The spelling in the text on the bottom of the screen is worse!

Answer 4

I wish we could excuse the BBC...but, we can't. Sounds like...someone needs to take a refresher course. Thanks for alerting us to this problem.