"When proper usage gets in the way, it may have to go."

Irregardless of what writers might do, it's best for newbies to obey the rules.

(See also: http://www.macmillandictionaryblog.com/is-there-a-case-for-publically-part-1)

Cancellation or cancelation? It's whatever the boss says it is. I had to pin the 'correct' spelling to my bulletin board so I wouldn't forget how to misspell it. Or is it mispell it? If people mispronounce a word long enough, it becomes the norm after a while. And don't axe me any questions.

I'm with Jerry. One thing that our current society does not suffer from is excessively rigid grammar or usage. I'm amazed these days at how many people seem to be unaware of the concept of homophones, that is, words that are pronounced the same but spelled differently. The theory seems to be that if the spell check doesn't flag it, then it's optional. Most of the writing I do is tech writing, where words have precise meanings, so sloppy usage jumps out at me.

One that I'm noticing a lot lately: intermixing than and then. Fairly simple rule is that you use "then" in two situations: (1) to indicate a relationship in time ("First I'll get a screwdriver, and then I'll tighten the door hinge"), and (2) to introduce the main clause in an if-then construct ("If it rains, then I'm wearing this jacket").

OH MY GOSH! The guys from "Peep Show" Hilarious!!! (That's one of my fav's...in case you couldn't tell. Highly recommended!

There you go again with your fascist blog phonics!

(I had hoped you would realize I knew that...)

Regardless, I always enjoy Mitchell & Webb.

I'm very strict with proper grammar regarding writing, but more lax with spoken vernacular.

So is "haitch" not the British pronunciation of "H"?
I've heard Aussies say "haitch" so I guess it varies.

The implication today is that no one must learn anything properly - that improvisation will always suffice.

No.

You will collide with reality the instant you try colloquial usage with logical or physical sciences - that is, the very things bringing you the life of such leisure that you might think you get to slack off.

But it still gives a whole new meaning to Hooked on Phonics.

No one else sees the irony in a BBC program using a gun (silenced no less) and in such a casual manner for a few laughs?

Oh, and the "Haitch" thing is something Indians all do and for some reason is a big pet peeve of mine. At least I don't hear "Zed" from any Canadians I guess. :)