Only alternative
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.From Mrs Shelagh M. Williams
Sir: I am a keen supporter of correct English usage and so was very interested in Danny Penman's article on Oxford University Press's decision to sanction the use of the split infinitive (31 July).
I noticed that Dr Lamb, chairman of the London branch of the Queen's English Society, in criticising this move, said that he would only split an infinitive "if all other alternatives are worse".
I had always understood that the word "alternative" is derived directly from the Latin alter - the other one (of two). Dr Lamb can have several choices, options, possibilities; but it would be better if he had only one "alternative".
Yours faithfully,
Shelagh M. Williams
Evesham, Worcestershire
From Mr Kevin Holland
Sir: Dr Bernard Lamb is critical of the Oxford University Press sanctioning split infinitives. He is quoted as saying "I would only do it as a last resort". So he sanctions a misplaced "only". Where will it end?
Yours faithfully,
Kevin Holland
Reader's Digest
London, W1
31 July
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments