Digest

The hosts of Car Talk discuss a recent announcement from Oxford University Press that it is now acceptable to split infinitives in certain situations. They explore the history of this grammatical rule, noting that it is often considered a myth and not a hard-and-fast rule. They provide examples of split infinitives and discuss how they can be used effectively in writing. The hosts also discuss the importance of using proper grammar and avoiding unnecessary jargon in writing. They encourage listeners to send in their own examples of split infinitives and to share their thoughts on the rule.

Outlines

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Splitting Infinitives: A Grammar Debate

This Chapter discusses the recent announcement from Oxford University Press that it is now acceptable to split infinitives in certain situations. The hosts explore the history of this grammatical rule, noting that it is often considered a myth and not a hard-and-fast rule. They provide examples of split infinitives and discuss how they can be used effectively in writing.

00:00:40

Car Talk: Listener Calls and Automotive Advice

This Chapter features listener calls and automotive advice. The hosts discuss a variety of car problems, including a noisy brake problem, a car that locks up when it rains, and a coolant leak. They provide helpful tips and advice on how to diagnose and fix these problems.

Keywords

Q&A

• What is a split infinitive?

  A split infinitive is a grammatical construction in which an adverb is placed between the infinitive marker "to" and the verb. For example, "to boldly go" is a split infinitive, while "to go boldly" is not.

• Why is Oxford University Press's announcement about split infinitives significant?

  Oxford University Press is a highly respected publishing house, and its announcement that it is now acceptable to split infinitives in certain situations is likely to influence the way that people write and speak. This announcement could lead to a more relaxed approach to grammar and a greater acceptance of split infinitives in writing.

• What are some examples of split infinitives?

  Some examples of split infinitives include "to boldly go", "to quickly run", and "to carefully consider". These split infinitives are often considered to be grammatically incorrect, but they can be used effectively in certain situations.

• What are some of the benefits of using split infinitives?

  Split infinitives can be used to improve the clarity or flow of a sentence. They can also add emphasis to a particular word or phrase. For example, the split infinitive "to boldly go" is more emphatic than the non-split infinitive "to go boldly".

• What are some of the drawbacks of using split infinitives?

  Some people argue that split infinitives are grammatically incorrect and that they should be avoided. Others argue that split infinitives can be awkward or confusing. It is important to use split infinitives sparingly and to ensure that they do not detract from the clarity or flow of a sentence.

Show Notes