In a message dated 8/16/06 9:49:55 AM, [log in to unmask] writes:

it is the case that as the language changes it tends to change in informal registers before the change creeps into more formal usage. Teaching register as a part of teaching grammar is a good way to acquaint students with notions of appropriateness and of change in progress.

Good point, Herb. But I guess what I'm puzzled by is how to know when a change has been accepted for writing in a fair(ly) formal register . . . like the New York Times.

Peter Adams
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