Grammar Wars: When to Break the Rules

FiredUp! - The Startup Marketing Podcast

As marketers, journalists, and PR experts, we know a thing or two about proper grammar. But sometimes, breaking the rules just feels right. The Firebrand team joins together on this episode as they explore the nuances of writing style, from the beloved Oxford comma to the power of the em-dash and much more! This week, episode 71 of the FiredUp! podcast is about grammar wars!

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In this episode of the FiredUp! podcast, the Firebrand team weighs in on the age-old debate of some of the most common grammatical errors and offers insights on the importance of balancing technical correctness with readability and flair.

Morgan, Chris, and Nicole discuss:

• The Oxford comma conundrum: a contentious topic among writers but many clients (as well as our team) just can’t let it go.
• The rise of the em-dash: with backlash from the increased use from AI, the em-dash plays an important role in enhancing digital content and conversational writing.
• Active vs. passive voice: although the American education system has taught passive voice out of many of us, it can add much-needed balance to your writing.
• Ending sentences with prepositions: while historically seen as taboo, it is now becoming more accepted in conversational writing styles.
• Embracing different punctuation: when used correctly, semicolons, em-dashes, and other punctuation marks can add personality and rhythm to your writing.

As writers, we often find ourselves caught in the crosshairs of grammar debates, but the true art lies in finding the balance between technical correctness and creative expression.

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章节

1. Grammar Wars: When to Break the Rules (00:00:00)

2. Debating the use of the Oxford comma. (00:01:34)

3. The rise and controversy of the em-dash. (00:05:49)

4. Active vs. passive voice. (00:12:45)

5. Ending sentences with prepositions. (00:25:18)

6. Fragment sentences and proper use of the semicolon. (00:25:37)

7. Having confidence in your punctuation use. (00:29:12)

8. Modern writing should balance confidence and flair. (00:33:12)