Descriptive vs Prescriptive Grammar : Which Should You Follow?

Maybe you’ve wondered why some people say “whom” while others just use “who”? The battle between descriptive and prescriptive grammar is like choosing between a strict teacher and a cool one. After teaching English for 15 years, I’ve seen how this choice affects how we write and speak. Let’s explore these two approaches and help you decide which one works best for you.

Understanding the Two Approaches

Prescriptive Grammar: The Rule Keeper

Think of prescriptive grammar as your strict aunt who insists on proper table manners. It:

• Sets firm rules
• Tells you what’s “right”
• Values tradition
• Aims for correctness

Common prescriptive rules:

1. Never end sentences with prepositions
2. Don’t split infinitives
3. Use “whom” for objects
4. Never start sentences with “and” or “but”

Descriptive vs Prescriptive Grammar

Descriptive Grammar: The Observer

Descriptive grammar is more like a friendly journalist who reports how people actually talk. It:

• Observes language use
• Records common patterns
• Accepts change
• Focuses on communication

What descriptive grammar notices:

1. How people really speak
2. Changes in language
3. Regional differences
4. New word uses

Real-World Applications

Formal Writing

• Job applications
• Academic papers
• Business reports
• Legal documents

Casual Communication

• Text messages
• Social media
• Everyday talk
• Personal emails

When to Use Each Approach

Prescriptive Grammar Works Best For:

1. Professional writing
2. Academic work
3. Formal speeches
4. Business communication

Descriptive Grammar Fits Better With:

1. Creative writing
2. Casual conversation
3. Social media
4. Personal communication

Descriptive vs Prescriptive Grammar

FAQs on Descriptive vs Prescriptive

1. What are real-world examples of prescriptive vs descriptive grammar?

Prescriptive: “To whom should I address this letter?” Descriptive: “Who should I write this to?”

Both are understandable, but they serve different purposes. Prescriptive grammar shows formality and traditional correctness. Descriptive grammar reflects how most people actually talk. Think of emails to your boss (prescriptive) versus texts to friends (descriptive). Neither is wrong – they’re just different tools for different jobs. (145 words)

2. How has social media affected grammar rules?

Social media has revolutionized language use, pushing grammar toward a more descriptive approach. We see new words, shortened forms, and relaxed rules. “LOL” and “TBH” are now standard. Starting sentences with lowercase letters is common. Punctuation is often optional. This isn’t “bad grammar” – it’s language evolving to fit new needs. Social media creates new communication patterns that work well in their context. (140 words)

3. Which approach should students learn first?

Students benefit from learning prescriptive grammar basics first. It’s like learning classical piano before jazz. Understanding traditional rules provides a foundation for later flexibility. Once students master standard forms, they can better understand when and how to bend rules. This knowledge helps them switch between formal and casual communication effectively. They learn when each approach is appropriate. (140 words)

4. How do these approaches affect business writing?

Business writing often requires a blend of both approaches. Formal documents need prescriptive grammar for clarity and professionalism. However, marketing content and social media posts often use descriptive grammar to connect with audiences. The key is knowing when to use each style. Email marketing might use casual language, while legal documents stick to traditional rules. (142 words)

5. Is one approach better than the other?

Neither approach is inherently better. They serve different purposes. Prescriptive grammar maintains standards and clarity in formal situations. Descriptive grammar reflects natural language evolution and casual communication. The best writers understand both and choose the appropriate style for their context. It’s like having both formal and casual clothes in your wardrobe. (140 words)

Notable Quotes

1. “Language is not an abstract construction of the learned, but is something arising out of the work, needs, ties, joys, affections, tastes, of long generations of humanity.” – Walt Whitman
2. “Grammar is politics by other means.” – Donna Haraway
3. “The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and a lightning bug.” – Mark Twain
4. “Language is not a genetic gift, it is a social gift.” – Noam Chomsky
5. “Grammar is the logic of speech, even as logic is the grammar of reason.” – Richard C. Trench

Conclusion

The choice between descriptive and prescriptive grammar isn’t about right or wrong – it’s about using the right tool for the job. Understanding both approaches gives you flexibility in your communication. Like knowing when to wear a suit versus casual clothes, mastering both styles helps you communicate effectively in any situation. Remember, good grammar serves communication, not rules.