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Bridget
05-14-2007, 12:57 AM
"Write as you talk" is ambiguous, while "write like you talk" is not.

Is it correct to place a comma before "while" there?

Mister Micawber
05-14-2007, 02:48 AM
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The clauses are short and intent clear, so I wouldn't bother with the comma.
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Bridget
05-14-2007, 03:51 PM
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The clauses are short and intent clear, so I wouldn't bother with the comma.
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Thanks. Any idea what style guides say about this?

Mister Micawber
05-14-2007, 06:26 PM
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My advice is a result of years of reading style guides, Bridget. When you have done that, you won't have to ask us questions any more.
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Bridget
05-14-2007, 11:04 PM
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My advice is a result of years of reading style guides, Bridget. When you have done that, you won't have to ask us questions any more.
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Mr Micawber, why are you being so rude? I asked for the opinions of style guides because I have to write a short paper on this topic. I shall not bother you again in your land of expertise and native speaker arrogance.

Mister Micawber
05-15-2007, 02:22 AM
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I am not being rude at all-- simply stating the obvious. You asked me if I had 'any idea' what the style guides say, and I explained that I have read many and my response was the result of that knowledge, and that if you did not want the fruit of my reading, there are plenty of style guides available for you to study yourself and also become an expert.

If you are not adept in the language, do not be so quick to take umbrage when none has been offered.
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Bridget
05-15-2007, 02:03 PM
<If you are not adept in the language, do not be so quick to take umbrage when none has been offered.>

Maybe you should learn to employ modal expressions. For example, maybe you should refrain from patronising posters.