Alone, only.—"In the Bible and earlier Englishaloneis often used for the adverbonly, but it is now becoming restricted to its own sense of 'solitary,' 'unaccompanied by other persons or things';"[116]as, "He rode all unarmed, and he rode allalone." Onlyis both adjective and adverb.
[115]See "Foundations," p. 121.[116]The Century Dictionary.
EXERCISE LXVII.
Fill each blank with the proper word ("only," "alone"):—
1. She —— of all the family had courage to go —— into that darkened room.2. These books are sold in sets ——.3. Man cannot live on bread ——.4. This fault —— is enough to make her disagreeable.5. By chance —— did he escape the gallows.6. Not —— at Ephesus, but throughout all Asia, Paul persuaded many people.7. To be successful a school paper must be supported, not —— with subscriptions, but also with contributions.
Omitted Adverbs.[117]—Adverbs necessary to the sense should not be omitted. This fault is especially common afterso, too,andvery—words which, as they express degree, properly qualify adjectives or adverbs, and not verbs or participles; also afterbehave, which, like the noun "behavior," requires a qualifying word to determine the meaning.
[117]"Foundations," p. 123.
EXERCISE LXVIII.
Supply the omitted adverbs:—
1. He was very struck by what she said.2. I wish you would behave.3. The king was very dissatisfied with his wife.4. I have too trusted to my own wild wants.5. If you cannot behave yourself, you had better stay at home.6. We are very pleased to see you.
Redundant Adjectives and Adverbs.[118]—A word that is not needed is said to be "redundant." Redundant expressions should be carefully avoided.
[118]Ibid., pp. 123-125.
EXERCISE LXIX.
Strike out the useless adjectives and adverbs:—
1. From thence they marched twenty miles.2. Which do you prefer most, apples or oranges?3. Whenever I meet him he always stops me.4. Celia wished to accompany Rosalind; therefore they both set out together.5. The view from the top is simply beautiful.6. Finally Rosalind disclosed her true identity.7. The exercises are appointed for 2 P.M. to-morrow afternoon.8. There are numerous mountain streams all throughout this region which abound in brook trout.9. The central pith of the report is as follows.10. Secluded and alone, he now partook of his solitary repast, which he entirely consumed.11. Out of the second term I took out the factorx.12. Right in behind East Rock we have a beautiful lake.13. When everything was all ready they started off.14. He was a boy of eighteen years old.15. If the ground is uneven they just level it off with a shovel.16. Once the two twins were shipwrecked while on a sailing voyage.17. The purple bird was once a royal king named Picus.18. A large search-light will show a sail at a distance of three or four miles away.19. Each of the provinces was ruled over by a duke.20. When he returned he entered into the printing business.21. He had a good chance to shift off the sky to the shoulders of Hercules.22. The mud falls off from the wheels and makes the street dirty.23. An old merchant of Syracuse, named Ægeon, had two twin sons.24. He was almost universally admired and respected by all who knew him.25. Pretty soon the man's hands began to get all blistered.26. Before you go you must first finish your work.27. He did it equally as well as his friends.28. It must be ten years ago since he left town.29. Collect together all the fragments.30. The play opens up with a scene in a forest.31. He has the universal good-will of everybody.32. Please raise up the window.33. The story ends up happily.34. They always entered school together every morning.35. Out of the entire pack only two dogs remained.36. He went away, but soon reappeared again.37. A monstrous large snake crawled out from under the identical stone on which you are this very minute sitting.38. I was deceived by false misrepresentations.39. This question opened up the whole subject.40. Let us, however, endeavor to trace up some of this hearsay evidenceas far towards its source as we are able.41. I will see you later on.
Misused AdjectivesandAdverbs.[119]—See the remarks under "Misused Nouns." An amusing illustration of misused adjectives was furnished by an illiterate man who introduced his second wife to a friend as "Mylatewife."
I.
Aggravating, irritating.—In good useaggravatingmeans "making heavier, more grave, worse in some way." It is often misused forirritating, exasperating,orprovoking.
All, the whole.—See page 120.
Apt, likely, liable.—Aptimplies a natural predisposition, an habitual tendency. "Likelyimplies a probability of whatever character;liable, an unpleasant probability."[120]One isaptto speak quickly,likelyto hear good news,liableto be hurt.
Both, each, every.—Both, meaning "the two, and not merely one of them," groups objects, as, "Bothwere men of hot temper."Eachmeans "all of any number, considered one by one," as, "Eachboy recited in his turn."Everymeans "all of any number, considered as composing a group or class," as, "Everypupil should have a dictionary and use it freely." "Everydirects attention chiefly to the totality,eachchiefly to the individuals composing it. It may also be observed thateachusually refers to a numerically definite group.... Thus, 'Each theory is open to objection' relates to an understood enumeration of theories, but 'Every theory is open to objection' refers to all theories that may exist."[121]
Many, much.—Manyrefers to number,muchto quantity.
Mutual, common.—Mutualproperly means "reciprocal," "interchanged." It is often misused forcommonin the sense of "belonging equally to both or all," especially in the phrase, "Amutualfriend."
Partly, partially.—"Partly, in the sense of 'in part,' is preferable topartially, sincepartiallyalso means 'with partiality.'"[122]
Quite, very.—Quiteproperly means "entirely"; in the sense of "very" or "to a considerable degree" it is not in good use.
So-as, as-as.—Bothsoandasare used as adverbs of degree correlative with the conjunction "as": unless there is a negative in theclauseasis generally used; with a negativesois preferable toas. We say "It isascold as ice," "It is notsogood as it looks."
[119]"Foundations," p. 125.[120]Ibid., p. 128.[121]Murray's Dictionary.[122]A.S. Hill: Principles of Rhetoric, revised edition, p. 19.
EXERCISE LXX.
Tell the difference in meaning between—
1. The circumstances of the offense are aggravating (exasperating).2. She gave an orange to both (each) of them.3. Each (every) man has his faults.4. I had a call from both (each) of the boys.5. He is apt (likely) to win the race.6. A mutual (common) friendship.7. The weekly reports are partially (partly) made out.
EXERCISE LXXI.
Insert the proper word in each blank:—
Aggravating, irritating.1. Some of his remarks were ——.2. The prisoner said his wife's conduct had been very ——.3. He has an —— manner.4. He was too —— by half.5. The murder was committed under —— circumstances.
All, the whole.6. —— (of) the boys were sent off at a day's notice to their homes.
[For additional exercises, see page 125].
Apt, likely, liable.7. An industrious man is —— to succeed.8. The ship was —— to founder at any moment.9. Bad books are —— to corrupt the reader,10. If a man does not care for himself, he is not —— to care much for other people.11. Youth is —— to err.12. Any kind of taxation is —— to be looked on as a grievance.13. We are constantly —— to accidents.14. Men are —— to think well of themselves, their nation, their courage, and their strength.
Both, each, every.15. —— of them has (have) taken a different course.16. —— went his way.17. He told me to invite —— brother and sister.18. He gave his hand to —— of them.19. In —— cheek (cheeks) appears a pretty dimple.20. I am feeling better in —— way.21. The oak and the elm have —— a distinct character.22. He'll be hanged yet, though —— drop of water swear against it.23. —— soldier has a musket, and —— one fires as fast as he can.24. —— inhabitant, male or female, young or old, was there.25. In —— ten women that the gods make, the devils mar five.26. There is a row of beautiful elm-trees on —— side(s) of the road.
Many, much.27. We saw as —— as twenty tramps.28. He blames his uncle for —— of his misfortune.29. I found that —— of the accidents on this railroad are caused by negligence.30. How —— of your peaches have you sold?
Mutual, common.31. Charles and his wife were happy in their —— love.32. They parted with —— good feeling.33. We have a —— friend in Mr. Phelps.34. I find, Miss Vernon, that we have some —— friends.
Partly, partially.35. Beware of acting ——.36. All men are —— buried in the grave of custom.37. This is —— true.38. The city of York is —— surrounded by a wall.
Quite, very.39. The country is —— open.40. The snow has —— covered the ground.41. Books —— worthless are —— harmless.42. The island is —— close to the mainland.43. He was —— dead when they found him.44. You are —— mistaken.45. He is —— ill.
So-as, as-as.46. She is —— amiable as she is beautiful.47. He is —— tall as his brother, but not —— tall as I.48. You have never —— much as answered my letter.49. Come —— quickly as you can.50. No other country suffered —— much as England.
II.
Apparently, evidently, manifestly.—"Apparentlyis properly used of that which seems, but may not be, real;evidently, of that which both seems and is real."[123]Manifestlyis stronger thanevidently.
Average, ordinary.—Averageimplies an arithmetical computation; if four persons lose respectively $10, $20, $30, and $40, theaverageloss is $25. The word is used figuratively by Dr. O.W. Holmes in "Theaverageintellect of five hundred persons, taken as they come, is not very high." In the sense of "usual," "common in occurrence," "of the usual standard,"ordinaryis preferable toaverage.
Bound, determined.—Boundproperly means "obliged," "fated," or "under necessity": as, "A man isboundby his word;" "We hold ourselves in gratitudeboundto receive ... all such persons." In the sense of "determined"houndis not in good use. In the sense of "sure" it is in colloquial, but not in literary, use.
Continual, continuous.—"Continualis used of frequently repeated acts, as, 'Continual dropping wears away a stone;'continuous, of uninterrupted action, as, 'the continuous flowing of a river.'"[125]
Deadly, deathly.—"Deathly, in the sense of 'resembling death,' as, 'She was deathly pale,' is preferable todeadly, sincedeadlyalso means 'inflicting death.'"[124]
Decided, decisive.—"Adecidedopinion is a strong opinion, which perhaps decides nothing; adecisiveopinion settles the question at issue. A lawyer may havedecidedviews on a case; the judgment of a court isdecisive."[125]
Dumb, stupid.—Dumbproperly means "mute," "silent." Its misuse forstupidis partly due, especially in Pennsylvania, to its resemblance to the Germandumm.
Existing, extant.—That isextantwhich has escaped the ravages of time (used chiefly of books, manuscripts, etc.); that isexistingwhich has existence.
Funny, odd.—Funnymeans "comical;" in the sense of "strange" or "odd" it is not in good use.
Healthy, healthful, wholesome.—That ishealthywhich is in goodhealth; that ishealthfulorwholesomewhich produces health.Wholesomecommonly applies to food.
Human, humane.—Humandenotes what pertains to man as man; as, "humannature," "humansacrifices."Humanemeans "compassionate."
Latest, last.—Latest, like the word "late," contains a distinct reference to time; that islatestwhich comes after all others in time:as, "Thelatestnews;" "Thelatestfashion."Last, which was originally a contraction of "latest," is now used without any distinct reference to time, and denotes that which comes after all others in space or in a series: as, "Thelasthouse on the street;" "TheLastof the Mohicans."
Lengthy, long.—Lengthyis said to have originated in the United States, but the earliest quotations found are from British authors. In the introduction to the second series of The Biglow Papers, Mr. Lowell wrote:"We have given back to England the excellent adjectivelengthy... thus enabling their journalists to characterize our President's messages by a word civilly compromising betweenlongandtedious, so as not to endanger the peace of the two countries by wounding our national sensitiveness to British criticism."Lengthyis used chiefly of discourses or writings, and implies tediousness.Longis used of anything that has length.
Mad, angry.—Madmeans "insane;" in the sense of "angry" it is not in good use.
New, novel.—That isnewwhich is not old; that isnovelwhich is both new and strange.
Oral, verbal.—"Oral, in the sense of 'in spoken words,' is preferable toverbal, sinceverbalmeans 'in words' whether spoken or written."[126]
Pitiable, pitiful.—"Pitiable,in the sense of 'deserving pity,' is preferable topitiful,sincepitifulalso means 'compassionate,' as, 'The Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.'"[126]
Practicable, practical.—That ispracticablewhich can be done; that ispracticalwhich is not theoretical only: as, "apracticableplan," "apracticalelectrician."
Prominent, eminent.—Prominentmeans "conspicuous," "standing out so as to be easily seen;"eminentmeans "distinguished in character or rank."
Real, really, very.—Realis properly an adjective, meaning "not imaginary or counterfeit," as, "realdiamonds." Its misuse for the adverbsreallyandvery, as, "This isrealpretty," is a vulgarism.
Scared, afraid.—The participlescaredmeans "frightened;"afraidis an adjective meaning "in fear." Before "of," the proper word isafraid: as, "She isafraidof horses."Scared ofis not in good use.
Grand, gorgeous, awful, splendid, elegant, lovely, magnificent.—Grandproperly implies "grandeur;"gorgeous, "splendid colors;"awful, "awe;"elegant, "elegance;"splendid, "splendor;"lovely,"surpassing loveliness;"magnificent, "magnificence."
"We talk, sometimes, with people whose conversation would lead you to suppose that they had lived in a museum, where all the objects were monsters and extremes.... They use the superlative of grammar: 'most perfect,' 'most exquisite,' 'most horrible.' Like the French, they are enchanted, they are desolate, because you have got or have not got a shoestring or a wafer you happen to want—not perceiving that superlatives are diminutives and weaken.... All this comes of poverty. We are unskilful definers. From want of skill to convey quality, we hope to move admiration by quantity. Language should aim to describe the fact.... 'Tis very wearisome, this straining talk, these experiences all exquisite, intense, and tremendous."[127]
[123]A.S. Hill: Principles of Rhetoric, revised edition, p. 39.[124]Ibid., p. 18.[125]Ibid., p. 38.[126]A.S. Hill: Principles of Rhetoric, revised edition, p. 19.[127]R.W. Emerson; The Superlative.
EXERCISE LXXII.
Tell the difference in meaning between—
1. The average (ordinary) yield of wheat.2. He is bound (determined) to come.3. There was continual (continuous) fighting for three days.4. It was deadly (deathly) cold in the cave.5. A decided (decisive) victory.6. The boy is dumb (stupid).7. His story is apparently (evidently, manifestly) true.8. The existing (extant) portraits of Milton.9. His actions were very funny (odd).10. This is a healthy (wholesome) plant.11. A human (humane) being.12. His latest (last) attempt.13. Long (lengthy) explanations.14. She became mad (angry).15. A new (novel) style.16. An oral (verbal) message.17. A pitiable (pitiful) man.18. Your purpose seems practical (practicable).19. A prominent (an eminent) man.20. He was really (very) glad to see us.
EXERCISE LXXIII.
Insert the proper word in each blank:—
Apparently, evidently, manifestly.1. The motion which—- belongs to the sun, really belongs to the earth.2. The stranger was—- in the prime of manhood.3. Theapparent (evident)discrepancy between the two narratives is not real.4. Our country is—- growing in wealth.5. A straight line is—- the shortest distance between two points.
Average, ordinary.6. To be excited is not the—- state of the mind.7. This picture has only—- merit.8.—- conversation is not instructive.9. The—- American is not wealthy.10. The—- expenses per man of the Yale class of '95 during Freshman year were $912.11. The life of the—- man is safer and more comfortable than it was a century ago.12. The—- age of the signers of the Declaration of Independence was nearly forty-four.13. Their—- duties were easy.
Bound, determined.14. He worked hard at his piece, for he was—- to speak it well.15. We have promised, therefore we are—- to go.16. I am—- to win, if I can.17. They were—- that they would see the end of the play, even though they should miss their train.
Continual, Continuous.18. He was exposed to—- interruptions.19. A—- line in space.20. —— victory makes leaders insolent.21. A —— siege of six months.22. The power of abstract study or of —— thought is rare.
Deadly, deathly.23. A —— stillness.24. The —— bite of the rattlesnake.25. My wound is ——.26. Her hands were —— cold.27. She, poor thing, was looking —— pale.28. Many savages have seen a musket kill small animals and yet have not known how —— an instrument it is.
Decided, decisive.29. He felt a —— aversion to company.30. Smith spoke out boldly in a —— tone.31. Creasy's "Fifteen —— Battles of the World."32. The nature of lightning was not known until Franklin made his —— experiment.
Dumb, stupid33. A man who cannot write with wit on a proper subject is dull and ——.34. A deaf and —— person.35. I was struck —— with astonishment.36. Judging from his recitations, I should say that John is either lazy or ——.
Extant, existing.37. God created all —— things.38. Only two authentic portraits of Shakespeare are ——.39. There are —— seven hundred and sixty-five of Cicero's letters.40. Every citizen should exert himself to remove —— evils.
Funny, odd.41. It is —— he never told me of his marriage.42. He made the boys laugh by drawing —— pictures on his slate.43. You must have thought it —— we didn't send for you.44. He amused us with —— stories.
Healthy, healthful, wholesome.45. Tomatoes are said to be a very —— food.46. If a —— body contributes to the health of the mind, so also a —— mind keeps the body well.47. Gardening is a —— recreation for a man of study or business.48. —— food in a —— climate makes a —— man.49. A —— situation. A —— constitution.- ——diet.
Human, humane.50. A—- disposition is not cruel.51. To err is—-; to forgive, divine.52. In the time of Abraham—- sacrifices were common among his heathen neighbors.53. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is a —— organization.
Latest, last.54. The—- men in the procession.55. The—- news.56. The—- of the Incas.57. Have you read the—- novel?58. The—- foot-ball game of the season will be played with the Yale Freshmen.
Lengthy, long.59. Cotton Mather wrote many—- dissertations.60. It is a—- ride from Ellen's Isle to Stirling.61. A—- line of ancestors.63. We were wearied by his—- explanations.
Mad, angry.63. His sarcastic manner makes me—-.64. That is nothing to get—- at.65. I have heard my grandsire say full oft,Extremity of griefs would make men —-.
New, novel.66. We have a—- horse.67. A—- feature of the entertainment was the "Broom Drill."68. At the World's Fair we saw many—- sights, especially in the Midway Plaisance.69. Alice had many—- experiences in Wonder Land.
Oral, verbal.70. Some slight—- changes have been made in the new edition of this book.71. Were your instructions—- or written.
Pitiable, pitiful.72. The condition of the poor in our great cities is—-.73. Be gentle unto griefs and needs,Be —- as woman should.74. The wretched girl was in a—- plight.75. A—- sight.
Practicable, practical.76. We have hired a —— gardener.77. This plan of campaign is not ——.78. We found the road not —— because of the heavy rains.79. A victory may be a —— defeat.
Prominent, eminent.80. Censure is the tax a man pays to the public for being ——.81. The figure of a man is —— in the picture.82. Frogs have —— eyes.83. Washington was a (an) —— man.84. John Quincy Adams was the —— son of a (an) —— father.
Real, really, very.85. She came home looking —— well after her long visit.86. Protestants believe that the bread of the Lord's supper is not —— changed, but remains —— bread.87. Homer tells us that the blood of the gods is not —— blood, but only something like it.88. I am —— glad you have come.89. He is —— dead.90. It was —— kind in you to send me flowers.91. Yes, I am —— old; I am sixty.92. He speaks —— well, doesn't he?93. —— kings hide away their crowns in their wardrobes, and affect a plain and poor exterior.94. This is —— pretty.95. We came on a —— fast train.96. She seemed —— glad to see us.97. The hotel is situated —— near the sea.
Scared, afraid.98. She was badly —— when her horse ran away.99. Harry is —— of tramps.100. Helen was —— of the cows in the meadow.
EXERCISE LXXIV.[128]
Illustrate by original sentences the correct use of each of these words:—Both, each, every, aggravating, liable, likely, apt, mutual, partially, quite, average, bound, continual, continuous, deadly, deathly, decided, decisive, dumb, apparently, evidently, extant, funny, healthy,healthful, wholesome, human, humane, latest, last, lengthy, mad, novel, verbal, pitiable, pitiful, practicable, practical, prominent, eminent, real, really, scared, grand, gorgeous, awful, splendid, elegant, lovely, magnificent.
Useof theComparative and Superlative.—The comparative degree is preferable when two things or sets of things are compared, the superlative when three or more are compared.
To say "Iron is more useful thananymetal" is clearly incorrect, because iron is included in "any metal," and of course iron is not more useful than itself. We must in thought set iron off in a class by itself, which we can do by inserting "other" after "any." "Iron is more useful thanany othermetal" is correct. After comparatives accompanied by "than," the words "any" and "all" should be followed by "other."
To say "Iron is the most useful ofany(or,any other) metal" is also clearly incorrect, because we mean that iron is the most useful, not of "one metal (no matter which)" or of "some metals (no matter which)," but of all metals. We should therefore omit the word "any," saying simply "Iron is the most useful of (all) metals." It is also incorrect to say "Iron is the most useful of allothermetals," for iron is not one of the "other metals." Beware of using "any" or "other" with superlatives followed by "of."
[128]See note To the Teacher, p. 41.
EXERCISE LXXV.
Which of the italicized forms is preferable?—1. Of London and Paris, London is thewealthier (wealthiest).2. Of two evils, choose theless (least).3. Theolder (oldest)of the three boys was sent to college.4. Which can run thefaster (fastest),your horse or mine?5. Of the two Latin poets, Virgil and Horace, thefirst (former)is thebetter (best)known.6. Which is thebetter (best)of the two?7. Which is thefarther (farthest)east, Boston New York, or Philadelphia?8. There is no doubt abouthim (his)being thebetter (best)in the little group of friends.9. Which is thelarger (largest)number, the minuend or the subtrahend?
EXERCISE LXXVI.
Explain and correct the errors in the following sentences:—
1. This picture is, of all others, the one I like best.2. This engraving of mine I like better than any picture I have.3. London is more crowded than any city in Great Britain.4. London is the most crowded of any city in Great Britain.5. She of all other girls ought to be the last to complain.6. Our grammar lessons are the hardest of any we have.7. St. Peter's is larger than any church in the world.8. St. Peter's is the largest of any church in the world.9. Noah and his family outlived all the people who lived before the flood.10. Solomon was wiser than all men.11. This State exports more cotton than all the states.12. A cowboy is the most picturesque of any men.13. Tabby has the worst temper of any cat I know.14. He thinks Gettysburg has the prettiest girls of any town of its size.15. The proposed method of Mr. F.G. Jackson, the English arctic explorer, appears to be the most practical and business-like of any yet undertaken for exploring the polar regions.
EXERCISE LXXVII.
Construct sentences comparing the following things, using first a comparative, then a superlative form:—
1. The large population of China; the smaller populations of other countries. EXAMPLE.—China has a larger population than any other country. Of all countries, China has the largest population in the world.2. John, who is very mischievous; other boys, who are less mischievous.3. Eve, who was exceedingly fair; her daughters (female descendants), who are less fair.4. Smith, the best athlete; the other boys in the school.5. Mary's recitations; the poorer recitations of her classmates.6. The population of London; the population of the other cities in the world.7. The circulation of the "Star;" the smaller circulation of other newspapers in the county.8. Ethel's eyes; the eyes of her playmates, which are not so bright.9. The examination papers of Professor A.; the easier papers set by other teachers.10. Philip; his classmates, who are less bright.11. Solomon, the wisest king; other kings.12. Samson, the strongest man; other men.13. Jacob's love for Joseph; his love for his other children.14. Youth; the other periods of life, which are less important.15. Demosthenes; the other and inferior orators of Greece.16. The books read by Fannie; the fewer books read by her classmates.17. This shady grove; other groves I know, which are less shady.18. The reign of Louis XIV.; the shorter reigns of other French kings.19. Shakespeare; other English poets, all of whom are inferior to him.20. The Falls of Niagara; other falls in the United States.
AdjectivesandAdverbs incapable of Comparison.[129]—Some adjectives and adverbs have meanings which do not vary in degree: as,dead, perfect, wooden.Such adjectives cannot properly be compared ormodified by the words "more," "most," "so," "too," and "very."
[129]"Foundations," p. 135.
EXERCISE LXXVIII.
Which of the following adjectives and adverbs do not vary in degree?— Absolutely, brave, cloudless, cold, conclusively, continually, entirely, essentially, extreme, faultless, French, fundamental, golden,happy, impregnable, inaudible, incessant, incredible, indispensable, insatiate, inseparable, intangible, intolerable, invariable, long, masterly, round, sharp, square, sufficient, unanimous, unbearable, unbounded, unerring, unique, universally, unparalleled, unprecedented.
Misplaced Adjectives and Adverbs.[130]—A word, a phrase, or a clause used as an adjective or an adverb should come next to the word, or words, which it modifies.
The wordonlyrequires special care. Observe how the position ofonlyaffects the meaning in the following sentences: "Only he lost his hat;" "He only lost his hat;" "He lost only his hat," or "He lost his hat only;" "He lost his only hat."
[130]"Foundations," p. 136.
EXERCISE LXXIX.
Correct the errors of position in the following sentences:—
1. Metal reflectors are only used now for cheap search-lights.2. I will only mention some of the best.3. I only had time to read "King Lear."4. He only spoke to me, not to you.5. Coons are only killed with the help of dogs. The coon only comes out in the night-time.6. Lost, a Scotch terrier, by a gentleman, with his ears cut close.7. Canteens were issued to the soldiers with short necks.8. We all went to the sea-shore for a little fresh air from the city.9. At one time Franklin was seen bringing some paper to his printing-office from the place where he had purchased it in a wheelbarrow.10. He went to Germany to patronize the people in the little German villages from which he came with his great wealth.11. The three young men set out and finally arrived at the college dressed in girls' clothes.12. The maskers were nearly dressed alike.13. Erected to the memory of John Smith accidentally shot as a mark of affection by his brother.14. Lost, an umbrella by a gentleman with an ivory head.15. A piano for sale by a lady about to cross the channel in an oak case with carved legs.16. He blew out his brains after bidding his wife good-bye with a gun.17. The Moor, seizing a bolster, full of rage and jealousy, smothered Desdemona.18. Wanted, a handsome Shetland pony suitable for a child with a long mane and tail.19. Wolsey left many buildings which he had begun at his death in an unfinished state.20. My cousin caught a crab and took it home in a pail of water which we had for our tea.21. I scarcely ever remember to have had a rougher walk.
AdverbsbetweenToandThe Infinitive.—"A careful writer will do well to avoid the construction which places the adverb betweentoand the infinitive. It is true that the construction is a common one; but it is also true that those who are most addicted to the practice are not those who count most as authorities on questions of good usage."[131]
[131]"Foundations," p. 140.
EXERCISE LXXX.
Improve the arrangement in the following sentences—
1. Hermes caused the milk pitcher of the old couple to never be empty.2. His political enemies tried to in this way impeach the courage of the President.3. He promises to earnestly try to do better.4. To really know the man we must read his books.5. Another project is to in some way modify the power of the House of Lords.6. She dwelt upon what was comforting, though conscious that there was little to veritably console.7. He proposed to either largely decrease the appropriation or to wholly do away with it.
Misused Prepositions.[132]—A writer, in choosing the proper preposition to express his meaning, must rely chiefly on his sense of idiom, that is, his knowledge of English usage, but he may find the following notes helpful.
Among, between.—"Amongis the proper word when the reference is to more than two persons or things, or groups of persons or things;between, when the reference is to two only."[133]
At, in.—Before names of places to denote "where,"atis used when the place is so small as to be treated as a mere point, or when, although large, it is viewed as a mere point;inis used when it is desired to make prominent the idea "within the bounds of:" as, "He arrivedatLiverpool in the morning and remainedinthat city two days." Before the name of the place in which the speaker dwells, if the place is of any size,inis generally preferred toat, unless the place is so remote that it dwindles in the mental vision to a point.
Back of.—Back of, though frequently heard in conversation and sometimes seen in print, is not in good use.
Beside, besides.—Besidemeans "by the side of;"besidesis now used only in the sense of "in addition to," "other than:" as, "Who sitsbesideyou?" "Whobesidesus knows this?"
By, with.—To introduce the agent of an actionbyis now commonly used; the material instrument or tool is usually introduced bywith: as, "Duncan was murderedbyMacbethwitha dagger."
Different from, different to.—Different fromis preferable todifferent toanddifferent than.
In, into.—"Inimplies presence inside of, or within;intoimplies movement to the inside of. Before a man can moveina room, he must already have movedintoit."[134]
In, on.—Before names of streets,inimplies some reference to surroundings;onis less definite, indicating location only.
On to, onto.—"Good use does not support eitheron tooronto."[135]
Wait for, wait on.—To wait formeans "to await," as, "We willwait foryou at the corner."To wait onmeans "to attend on," as, "At dinner the womenwaited onthe men."
[132]"Foundations," pp. 142-148.[133]Ibid., p. 143.[134]Ibid., p. 145.[135]"Foundations," p. 146.
EXERCISE LXXXI.
Insert the proper preposition in each blank:—
Among, between.1. He divided the apples —— the five boys.2. There was a generous rivalry —— the two friends.3. I have no preference —— many of Tennyson's poems.4. There is bad feeling —— China and Japan.5. The money was divided —— the six heirs.
At, in.6. Napoleon died —— Longwood, a villa on the island of St. Helena; Byron died —— Missolonghi, —— Greece.7. Did he graduate —— Oxford or —— Cambridge?8. He is now —— Ireland.9. Milton was educated —— Christ's College.10. When shall we arrive —— Rome?11. I am eager to visit a hundred places —— Florence.12. We live —— New York.13. Macaulay lived —— London.
Beside, besides.14. Have you nothing to tell us —— what we have already heard?15. The boy stood —— her.16. —— the large planets, there are hundreds of smaller planets called"asteroids."17. Let me sit —— you.
By, with.18. The door was fastened —— nails —— the carpenter.19. The Great Charter was signed —— King John.20. Thebes was founded —— Cadmus.21. Truth finds an easy entrance into the mind when she is introduced —— Desire and attended —— Pleasure.22. He entertained us —— a story.23. He struck me —— his cane.
In, into.24. The dog is —— the water.25. Come —— the house.26. Look —— my desk.27. Put more life —— your speaking.28. Throw it —— the fire.29. What put this idea —— your head?30. Carry the basket —— the kitchen.31. She threw herself —— a chair.
In, on.32. The cable cars —— Broadway.33. Ellen and Harry are playing —— the street.34. The Murray Hill Hotel is —— Fourth Avenue.35. They carry on their business —— William Street.
"With certain words good use requires special prepositions. Among these words are the following:—
abhorrence of.absolve from.accord with.acquit of.adapted to or for.affinity between, to, or with.agree with (a person).agree to (a proposal).averse from or to.bestow upon.change for (a thing).change with (a person).comply with.center on (= give to).confer with (= talk with).confide in (= trust in).confide to (= intrust to).conform to.in conformity with or to.convenient for or to.conversant with.correspond to or with (a thing).correspond with (a person).dependent on (but independent of).derogatory to.differ from (a person or thing).differ from or with (in opinion).disappointed of (what we cannot get).disappointed in (what we have).dissent from.glad at or of.involve in.martyr for or to.need of.part from or with.profit by.reconcile to or with.taste of (food).taste for (art).Thirst for or after."[136]
[136]"Foundations," p. 148.
EXERCISE LXXXII.
I.Tell the difference in meaning between—
1. She confides in (to) her sister.2. He differs from (with) me.3. We are disappointed of (in) our guests.4. He is in (at) New York.5. He waited on (for) his mother.
II.Tell what prepositions are required with these words: Abhorrence, absolve, accord, acquit, adapted, affinity, agree, agreeable, averse, bestow, change (verb), comply, confer, confide, conform, in conformity, convenient, conversant, correspond, dependent, derogatory, differ, different, disappointed, dissent (verb), eager, exception, expert, glad, independent, involve, martyr, need (noun), part (verb), profit (verb), reconcile, taste (noun), thirst (noun), worthy.
EXERCISE LXXXIII.
Insert the proper preposition in each blank:—[137]
1. Please wait —— me; I will come as soon as I can.2. She married him —— her father's consent.3. The cathedral was rich —— all kinds of golden vessels.4. Moses received the laws —— the people on Mount Sinai.5. Evangeline died —— Philadelphia.6. —— whom did they rent the house?7. —— whom can I rely?8. The boy went in search —— his sister.9. The streams —— this region abound —— trout.10. The traces of a struggle were seen —— the tree.11. They got —— the carriage and rode away.12. He has moved —— New York, where he lives —— an elegant mansion.13. He thought that he put the money —— his pocket, but he found it —— his shoe.14. The paper was cut —— small strips.15. We stood —— the landing.16. The firemen went —— the roof of the house.17. He is down —— the village.18. What was the matter —— him?19. He died —— a fever.20. When we were —— Rome we stayed —— a small hotel.21. He lives —— a frame house —— Cambridge.22. Her unladylike behavior gave occasion —— many unpleasant remarks.23. Caterpillars change —— butterflies.24. She lives —— College Street, —— No. 1009.25. It was conducive —— my comfort.26. The calm was followed —— a sudden storm.27. The soil of Virginia is adapted —— the production of hemp and tobacco.28. The flower is excellently adapted —— catching insects.29. Congress consists —— a Senate and a House of Representatives.30. —— what does happiness consist?31. —— some sentences the conjunction is omitted.32. A judge who has an interest in a case is disqualified —— hearing it.33. He was accused —— robbery.34. He died —— starvation, she —— pneumonia.35. You may rely —— what I say, and confide —— my honesty.36. The bird flew —— the tree.37. He let the knife fall —— the creek.38. What is my grief in comparison —— that which she bears?39. Most persons feel an abhorrence —— snakes.40. He aspires —— political distinction.41. We were disappointed —— the pleasure of seeing you.42. There is need —— great watchfulness.43. I have been —— New Orleans, and I am now going —— New York.44. We lived —— a little village —— the South.45. I find no difficulty —— keeping up with my class.46. —— every class of people selfishness prevails.47. He divided his estate —— his son, his daughter, and his nephew.48. He is very different —— his brother.49. This was different —— what I expected.50. Compare your work —— his, and you will see the difference.51. My old yacht was small in comparison —— this.52. He is adapted —— an out-door life.53. His disobedience was attended —— serious consequences.54. His mother was overcome —— grief.55. We were accompanied —— our parents.56. A man should try to rid himself —— prejudice.57. He will profit —— his experience.58. The room was redolent —— the perfume.59. You must conform —— the rules.60. Fondness —— horses was his leading trait.61. We felt the need —— some adviser.62. I cannot reconcile this assertion —— your other one.63. Let us cut it —— three equal parts.64. He is acquitted —— all blame.65. The Pope absolved him —— his oath of allegiance.66. This fact does not accord —— her declaration.67. I do not agree —— you; therefore I cannot agree —— your proposal.68. The queen bestowed —— Tennyson the title of baron.69. The college has conferred —— my uncle the degree of Doctor of Divinity.70. The two emperors conferred —— each other for an hour.71. He is conversant —— many languages.72. They were independent —— each other.73. His sisters are dependent —— him.74. That is not derogatory —— their character.75. I dissent —— that proposition.76. We are glad —— his promotion.77. He has a taste —— poetry; she, a thirst —— knowledge.78. In 1842 he emerged —— obscurity.79. His property was merged —— the common stock.80. She often went —— town shopping.81. He plunged —— the deepest part of the lake.82. These bands of Indians were accompanied —— settlers from Detroit.83. The settlers were in company —— Indians.84. His proposal is likely to stir up ill-will —— the various classes.85. The Greeks, fearing that they would be surrounded, wheeled about and halted, with the river —— their backs.86. We are within three miles —— Salisbury.
Omitted Prepositions.[138]—"Beware of omitting a preposition that is needed to make the meaning clear or the sentence grammatical."[139]
"Before 'home' the preposition 'at' should never be omitted, but thepreposition 'to' is always omitted:e.g.,'I am going home.'"[138]
[137]In this exercise the pupil must rely chiefly on his knowledge of English usage or on a dictionary. In some of the sentences more than one preposition is allowable, according to the sense.[138]"Foundations," p. 149.[139]Ibid., p. 150.
EXERCISE LXXXIV.
Insert the necessary prepositions in the following sentences:—
1. What use is this piece of ribbon?2. The oak was five feet diameter.3. My business prevented me attending the last meeting of the committee.4. I could not refrain shedding tears.5. The remark is worthy the fool that made it.6. It is unworthy your notice.7. He lives the other side the river.8. He fled the country, and went either to England or France.9. Ignorance is the mother of fear as well as admiration.10. Religion is a comfort in youth as well as old age.11. It's no use to give up.12. This side the mountain the country is thickly settled; the other side there are few inhabitants.13. I wrote Mr. Knapp to come Wednesday, and promised that he should find us home.14. Wealth is more conducive to worldliness than piety.15. He is not home, but I think he is coming home to-night.
Redundant Prepositions.[140]—Beware of inserting prepositions which are not needed.
[140]Ibid., p. 150.
EXERCISE LXXXV.
Strike out the redundant prepositions:—
1. He met a boy of about eighteen years old.2. Cadmus stood pondering upon what he should do.3. Let a gallows be erected of fifty cubits high.4. Hercules was very willing to take the world off from his shoulders and give it to Atlas again.5. No one can help from loving her.6. From thence in two days the Greeks marched twenty miles.7. There was much of wisdom in their plan.8. A workman fell off of the ladder.9. On one day I caught five trout, on another twelve.10. We must examine into this subject more carefully.11. A child copies after its parents.12. The proposal to go to the woods was approved of by all of the boys.13. At about what time will father return?14. After having heard his story, I gave him a dollar.15. The spring is near to the house.16. Bruno followed on after his master.17. Wanted, a young man of from sixteen to twenty-one years of age.18. They went on to the steamer soon after dinner.19. Look out of the window.
Vulgarisms.[141]—Every educated person is expected to know the correct use of the following words:—
Like, as.—In good uselikeis never a conjunction, and therefore it cannot be used instead ofasto introduce a clause. It is incorrect to say, "WalklikeI walk," but one may say, "He walkslikeme," or "He lookslikehis grandfather."[142]
Except, without, unless.—Except, which was originally a past-participle, was once in good use as a conjunction; but in modern use it has been displaced as a conjunction byunless, and is now a preposition only. We may say, "All wentexceptme," but we may not say, "Exceptyou go with me, I will stay at home." Another word not in good use as a conjunction, but often heard instead of "unless," iswithout.
[141]"Foundations," p. 152.[142]See page 109.
EXERCISE LXXXVI.
Insert the proper word in each blank:—
Like, as.
1. Do —— I do.2. She fears a chicken —— you fear a snake.3. Thin bushy hair falls down on each side of his face somewhat —— Longfellow's hair did in his later life.4. I wish I could sing —— she can.5. I will be a lawyer —— my father.6. I will be a lawyer —— my father was.7. She looks —— (if) she were crying.8. He acted —— (if) he were guilty.9. Our snow-tunnel looked —— we imagined Aladdin's cave looked.10. He treated me —— a cat treats a mouse.11. Seventy-five cents a day will not feed those men —— they wish to be fed.12. The lines in this stanza are not forced —— in other stanzas.13. If I were a boy —— Ralph is, I would try to stop the thing.
Except, without, unless.14. I do not know how my horse got away —— somebody untied him.15. Do not come —— you hear from me.16. I will not go —— father is willing.17. I will not go —— father's consent.18. —— you study better, you will be dropped.19. It will be cool to-morrow —— a hot wave comes.20. I cannot go —— money.21. I cannot go —— father sends me some money.22. I will be there promptly —— I hear from you.23. Do not write —— you feel in the mood for it.24. She has no fault —— diffidence.25. She has no fault —— it be diffidence.26. He cannot enlist —— with his guardian's consent.
Misused Conjunctions.[143]—Conjunctions are few in number and are more definite in their meanings than prepositions. Most errors in using them spring from confused thinking or hasty writing. "A close reasoner and a good writer in general may be known by his pertinent use of connectives."[144]
And.—Andhas, generally speaking, the meaning of "in addition to."
But.—Butimplies some exception, opposition, or contrast. Equivalent, or nearly equivalent, expressions are "however," "on the other hand," "yet," "nevertheless."
As.—"Ashas so many meanings that it is better, when possible, to use a conjunction that covers less ground."[145]
Because, for, since.—The difference between these words is chiefly a difference in emphasis. "We will not go,becauseit is raining" is the strongest way of expressing the relation of cause and effect. In "Sinceit is raining, we will not go," the emphasis is shifted fromthe cause to the effect, which becomes the prominent idea. In "We will not go,forit is raining," the reason, "it is raining," is announced as itself a bit of news. Often the choice between these words is decided by the ear.
How.—Howproperly means "in what manner" or "to what extent." It is often misused for "that" to introduce an object clause.
Nor, or.—Noris the correlative ofneither, sometimes of other negatives.Oris the correlative ofeither.
Therefore, so.—In the sense of "for this reason,"thereforeis preferable toso, sincesohas other meanings.
Though.—Thoughmeans "notwithstanding," "in spite of the fact that."
As if, as though.—"As ifis, on the whole, preferable toasthough."[146]
When, while.—Whenmeans "at the time that;"while, "during thetime that," "as long as." "Whenfixes attention on a date or period;whilefixes attention on the lapse of time."[147]
[143]"Foundations," p.152.[144]Coleridge: Table Talk. Quoted by A.S. Hill in Principles ofRhetoric.[145]"Foundations," p. 153.[146]"Foundations," p. 156.[147]Ibid., p. 157.
EXERCISE LXXXVII.
Insert the proper conjunction in each blank, if a conjunction isneeded. Do not confine your choice to those mentioned above:—
1. Roland was mild and modest, —— Charles was coarse and boastful.2. —— they were without provisions, they thought they should starve.3. In Addison's day innumerable vices were prevalent, —— chief among them was the custom of drinking.4. Charles was a large, brawny fellow, —— Orlando was a slender youth.5. When the barn was full of people, the doors were suddenly shut and bolted —— the barn was set on fire.6. Hereward's men wanted booty, —— Hereward took them to the Golden Borough.7. He read a short —— interesting account of "Theobald's."8. Longfellow received a good education —— he was not a poor boy.9. He was disappointed in the speed of his yacht, —— he had expected her to be very fast.10. The man said "to sell" was not needed on the sign —— no one would expect the hats to be given away.11. There is no doubt —— the earth is spherical.12. I know very little about the "Arabian Nights" —— I have never read that book.13. When Gulliver began to pull, the ships would not move —— their anchors held them.14. He had to be cautious in using his Bible —— at that time reading it was prohibited; —— he fastened it with tapes on the underside of a stool.15. The Liberal Arts Building at Chicago had twice as much iron in its frame —— the Brooklyn Bridge.16. The lumbermen must keep open a road to the railroad, —— all their provisions must be brought from the city.17. Scarcely had I thrown in my line —— I felt a nibble.18. The fly seems to have been created for no other purpose —— to purify the air.19. At first you wonder where the boats are, —— on entering the grove you can see only a small cabin.20. I do not doubt —— he will succeed.21. I cannot deny —— he is honest.22. He was dismissed, not so much because he was too young —— because he was indolent.23. The land is equally adapted to farming —— to pasturage.24. Proportion is —— simple —— compound.25. I wonder —— he will come.26. The last of the horses had scarcely crossed the bridge —— the head of the third battalion appeared on the other side.27. He looked as —— he could play football.28. —— I saw her, she was young —— beautiful.29. Bruce spoke of himself as being neither Scotch —— English.30. I could —— buy —— borrow it.31. He has no love —— veneration for his superiors.32. There was no place so hidden —— so remote —— the plague did not find it.33. We need not, —— do not, complain of our lot.34. He could not deny —— he had borrowed money.35. There is no question —— the universe has bounds.36. A corrupt government is nothing else —— a reigning sin.37. She thinks, I regret to say, of little else —— clothes.38. O fairest flower, no sooner blown —— blasted.39. There is no other hat here —— mine.40. —— you have come, I will go with you.41. —— Virgil was the better artist, Homer was the greater genius.42. He has not decided —— he will let me go to college.43. Sheep are white —— black.44. The King has no arbitrary power; your Lordships have not —— the Commons; —— the whole Legislature.45. No tie of gratitude —— of honor could bind him.46. She had no sooner arrived —— she prepared to go boating.47. Scarcely had she left the house —— she returned.48. He was punished, —— he was guilty.49. He was punished, —— he was not guilty.50. We cannot go —— we finish our task.51. —— the rain came down in torrents, we started for the lake.52. She could —— dance —— sing, —— she played the piano.53. I do not know —— I shall walk —— ride.54. Hardly had he left the room —— the prisoner attempted to escape.55. The chances are ten to one —— he will forget it.56. Stand up so —— you can be seen.