Among ourselves, we passionately discuss the inane errors that regularly find their way into print. We enthusiastically debate whether media consumers are oblivious, complacent, or just too lazy to demand accuracy. We “tweet” one another links to glaring grammar gaffes, upload to “flickr” photos of misspelled billboard messages, and post to “facebook” examples of problematic punctuation. We are alternately amused and dismayed by the rampant incompetence of advertising agencies, communications directors, and reputable publishers. We have plenty to say!

This weblog will collect and critique public language blunders, so grab your virtual red pen and join the conversation:

14 January 2011

You'll pay later ...

My friend and mentor John Banusiewicz, managing editor for the Department of Defense, celebrates superfluous punctuation every Friday, and food vendors seem to dominate his end-of-week facebook wall of shame. Among the signs he's collected are some doosies: "PIZZA" BY THE SLICE makes me wonder what the eatery is really serving. I'll not be shopping at any deli that warns OUR FRIED FOODS MAY HAVE BEEN COOKED IN "SOY OIL." And for many reasons I'll detour blocks around the market that posts "PARENTS" You are Responsible For your "Childrens" (SAFETY) Do not let them Run "Free" or "Leave" them "Unattended" "In Shopping Carts" While Shopping. Management Thank You

Visit the "blog" of "unnecessary" quotation marks for additional chuckles and/or frustration.

4 comments:

  1. John B.14 January, 2011

    A fascinating phenomenon.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Anonymous17 January, 2011

    This is akin to the apostrophe that always seems to be used in opposition to its intent. Other times, it makes you wonder if it's being confused with an exclamation point or some other punctuation.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Unknown19 January, 2011

    it's out of control and since everyone is getting more sloppy, it will surely just worsen. I'm usually positive, but ignorance seems more accepted by most these days, except our kind!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Shelena27 January, 2011

    HI! I don't have anything to say in reference to this particular post, I just wanted to say hello and let you know that I have enjoyed reading through your blog!!
    best,
    sym

    ReplyDelete

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