Many spelling errors occur because of how we pronounce words. Take, for instance, “grammar” or “grammer.” People use the latter because the ending of “grammar” (gram-mar) sounds like -er. It’s an understandable error, but the only correct spelling of the word is “grammar.”
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What Is Grammar?
Grammar, a noun, is the set of rules we follow to make sure that the words we combine together (to form a sentence) are understandable.
For instance, syntax helps us organize the order of words in a sentence, ensuring that the parts of speech—like nouns, verbs, adverbs, prepositions, and adjectives—are in the correct places. Subject-verb agreement ensures that your subject “agrees” with the verb. We also have punctuation that guides us on where to pause or stop.
The word grammar comes from the ancient Greek word grammatikḗ, which means “the art of write and speak.”
Examples:
- Can you please check if my grammar is correct?
- You need to practice and master the basic grammar rules first.
- Having perfect grammar is the key to well-written content.
- You need to adhere to proper grammar rules if you want to ace the American English test!
- I’m excited to attend English class and learn about English grammar!
- Misunderstandings are often a result of grammar errors.
Tip: You can polish your writing by familiarizing yourself with the most common grammar mistakes.
When and How to Use Grammar?
You can use the word “grammar” whenever the context of your sentence (or conversations) revolves around language rules.
For instance, your teacher asks you to improve your sentence structure. You can respond with, “Thank you for letting me know my mistake. What grammar rule should I practice?
What’s the Correct Spelling?
As we’ve mentioned earlier, “grammar” is the only spelling that you should use. So, why is “grammer” a misspelling? Well, most people often spell words phonetically.
Fun Fact: The word grammer does exist, but it doesn’t have the same meaning as “grammar.” “Grammer” can be the small town in Rock Creek Township, in the US state of Indiana, or a person’s first or surname. Keep in mind that proper nouns are always capitalized!
Other Words That End With -Ar but Are Pronounced Like -Er
“Grammar” and “grammar” aren’t the only words that confuse many people. Here are other words ending in -ar but are pronounced with -er.
- Calendar
- Popular
- Polar
- Dollar
- Sugar
Trick to Remembering the Right Spelling
If you are still having a hard time remembering that you should write the word “grammar” instead of “grammer,” here are some helpful tricks:
- Try a mnemonic: Gorillas Rest At Morning, Monkeys Also Rest.
- There are two A’s in “grammar.”
- “Grammer” is only correct if you are referring to a town in Indiana or the first or last name of a person (think the American actor Kelsey Grammer or American singer and songwriter Andy Grammer).
Final Thoughts
There you have it! Remember, the right spelling is always “grammar,” with -ar at the end. “Grammer” is a common misspelling of the word “grammar.” “Grammer” is only correct if you’re referring to a small town in Indiana or a person’s name.
