subject: Why Good Grammar Is Important [print this page] Why Good Grammar Is Important Why Good Grammar Is Important
As the world becomes more technologically inclined, good grammar seems to go to the wayside. People, used to taking shortcuts with the help of new technology, also take shortcuts with grammar. Texting, Facebook, MySpace and Twitter are forums that allow us to be grammatically lazy. The problem with this is, our generation is losing focus of the importance of being grammatically correct.
When you speak or write you are presenting yourself through language. When communicating through language, be it written or spoken, your syntax and diction represent who you are. This is especially true when you are communicating via phone or internet and the other person cannot see you. In this case, all they have on which to base an opinion about you is the way you speak. It is important to be well spoken so that what you have to offer is not overshadowed by distracting grammatical errors.
Using proper grammar is a sign of respect, both for yourself and for others. The difference between good grammar and bad grammar seems to be generational, but that is due to cultural differences in technology and the fast-paced lifestyle we live today, not to changes in the grammatical structure of language. To speak well is to show respect for yourself, in that you take the time to present yourself in a polished way, for others, in that you speak and/or write clearly so as to be easily understood, and for the language itself, in that you don't butcher it with unnecessary abbreviations and misspelled words.
Using proper grammar is the easiest way to gain the respect and trust of others. Consider two people, each trying to sell you something. One says, "Hey. Ain't you gotta new phonebook? This here, this here is like, awesome. You need this phonebook, man!" The other says, "Hello. Are you in need of a phonebook? I just picked these up from the printer's, they are the most current phonebooks available!" Which person are you going to trust? The products are identical, but the second salesman is more apt to catch your attention, as one immediately associates his fine command over the language with an equally impressive knowledge base about his product.
This applies not only in sales, but in all forms of communication. We are constantly told not to be judgmental, but making judgments is a key part of our psychology. Using good grammar is a crucial part of making a good impression, no matter what the arena.
