There are a couple of things to remember about using albeit (a conjunction): first, its meaning is similar to even though, although, despite, in spite of, and but, which means it conveys contrasting ideas; second, it’s followed by an adjective, an adverb, or a prepositional phrase; third, it’s usually followed by a negative idea. like this:… Read more »

I’m really digging this cooler weather, but it can take a toll on you if you’re not careful. Yesterday, I went out for a stroll with some students without a jacket. The sun was out, but it felt a little chilly. When we got back, I started to get the sniffles; my nose started to run,… Read more »

In this fourth installment of our GrammarReminder series on reported speech, let’s look at how to report questions. There are two main things to remember: first, follow the rules of reported speech outlined in our Sept. 8 post; second, follow the rules of embedding questions–use the question words in information questions, use if or whether… Read more »

1. I can’t decide on where to go, so it’s your call.2. We told him picking a restaurant was his call since he knew the area much better than we did.3. They told me it was my call, so I decided to take the train instead of the bus.4. Whose call was it to hold… Read more »

Before you look at this lesson, make sure you’ve checked out part 1 and part 2 of this GrammarReminder series to review the rules and see the first set of examples. In this lesson, take note of how the past perfect tense doesn’t change when you report what someone said. Also notice how can becomes… Read more »

1. His visits to the hospital became sporadic once he started school, but they were still greatly appreciated by the staff. 2. In general, he was a good student, but his sporadic attendance caused him to fail the class.3. Tom’s calls home became sporadic once he started working.4. These days, he’s often tired although he… Read more »

If you haven’t yet, please check out part 1 of this GrammarReminder series for a quick introduction to reported speech. In part 2, we’re going to look at some examples of reporting someone’s speech. Take note of how the present tense becomes past tense, the past tense becomes past perfect, the present perfect becomes past… Read more »

Use the past tense after “It’s time someone …,” “It’s high time someone …” or “It’s about time someone …” These expressions mean “the time is now” or “you should do it now.” like this:1. You should come to Miami for spring break. It’s high time you came to visit us.2. He’s currently checking out… Read more »

1. The boss told them to bury the hatchet. Their constant fighting is affecting office morale.2. They’re trying to bury the hatchet, but they really can’t stand each other.3. He says he’s buried the hatchet, but she’s still really pissed at what he did.4. Burying the hatchet is not easy when the attacks have become… Read more »

1. There’s a credible terror threat against New York City and Washington, D.C. tied to the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. (believable)2. They say they are stepping up security, doing things that will be noticeable to the public. (increasing)3. The threat at this moment has not been corroborated. (confirmed)4. Since May, U.S. law enforcement officials… Read more »