Making a point on language

I am moved by the eloquence of the writer to join in the discussion on the subject of English grammar rules. 

The comparison of language to a river meandering every which way is apt. Indeed, language is constantly being changed over time by those who use it. Small branches of the river (grammar rules such as “never begin a sentence with a conjunction” or “never end a sentence with a preposition”) may disappear, but the banks providing overall direction remain. We all know what happens when the river overflows its banks: disaster.

The degree of accuracy required in the use of language very much depends on the purpose for which it is being used. New language learners, whose main motivation is to communicate orally, do not need to be as precise as university students who need it to take competitive examinations and write theses, or business people who have to write memos, letters, and reports as well as negotiate and make presentations in English.

It is said that “clothes make the man”. The ability to fine tune one’s use of whatever language one is using to communicate (native or other) to the situation and the audience is an even better indicator of one’s character. Utpalendu Gupta, you have mastered this art. But I’m afraid that your letter belies the very point you’re trying to make.

Rochelle Powtong