PDF

Original sentence

People can look very different, from fair to dark, straight hair or curly, and short or tall.

Issues

  • Ambiguity: The phrase "from fair to dark" is a bit vague for grammar and may imply a range rather than individual differences.
  • Parallel structure: The list should have parallel adjectives or phrases to match the pattern.
  • Comma usage: Consider using commas to separate items in a list clearly.

Corrected options

  1. Option 1 (simpler): People come in many different looks: fair or dark skin, straight or curly hair, and short or tall.
  2. Option 2 (keeping original idea): People can look very different—fair skin or dark skin, straight hair or curly hair, and short or tall.
  3. Option 3 (consistent parallel structure): People can look very different: fair or dark skin, straight or curly hair, and short or tall.

Tips for grammar

  • Use parallel structures to keep lists easy to read: A, B, and C.
  • Be specific and consistent in descriptions: skin color, hair type, height.
  • Use em dashes or commas to set off additional information if needed.

Ask a followup question

Loading...