The difference between i.e. and e.g. has confounded many writers, including this one back in the day. Not to mention keeping the difference straight once you learn it. I have a trick that works! But first things first. Let’s discuss the difference between i.e. and e.g. In Latin, i.e. stands for “id est,” which means “that is.” So, […]
Are you wondering how to use a semicolon correctly? I usually tell people to avoid using them, mainly because most folks don’t know how to use them correctly. And when it comes to copywriting, semicolons aren’t necessary or useful 99.9999% of the time. But I’m also a big believer in “knowing the rules.” (Knowing the […]
Dear Copy Bitch: We are always having these debates in the office. I am always on the losing end, but I think I’m right. 1. Is website one word or two? 2. Do you capitalize internet? 3. Do you put dashes between “cost-per-click”? I know I have others, but now of course, I can’t think […]
If you’re wondering how to write like a lawyer, you’re probably in law school, thinking about law school, or thinking that writing like a lawyer will make you sound smart. Well, here’s a story for you: A bunch of years ago, I taught a first-semester writing course to law students. The reason why this brave […]
Dear Copy Bitch: Any thoughts on nonetheless vs nevertheless? Are they interchangeable? –Jay S., from an email It depends on who you talk to. Some say nonetheless and nevertheless have slightly different meanings. But the reality is most regular folks aren’t going to know the subtle difference. And guess what? Merriam-Webster considers nonetheless and nevertheless […]
I wrote this blog post on how to engage customers a bunch of years ago. In it, I share a true story. And you know what? The lessons within and the customer engagement strategies I share still hold true. So, let’s get to it: How to engage customers, a true-life story of the good, the […]
Language isn’t static—no surprise, right? That’s how trendy words get added to the dictionary, like rizz, which means “romantic appeal or charm.” Because language is constantly evolving, even technically correct answers can sometimes find themselves ignored to the point that the incorrect answer becomes accepted. And that’s what we’re seeing in the case of could […]
Dear Copy Bitch: I have a copywriter working on my website copy, and she recently asked me who my competitors are. Here’s the thing: I know it’s a standard question, but we really don’t have competitors. No one does the work as well as we do. We really are different. How do I explain this […]
Dear Copy Bitch: My eyes hurt! I stare at my computer all day and make mistakes left and right–stupid mistakes, too. Do you have any tips for proofreading on a computer monitor? –Grumpy Proofreader Answer: Yes, Grumpy, never fear! The Copy Bitch feels your pain and has proofreading strategies when reviewing stuff on the ol’ […]
Peak vs peek vs pique. Oh, my! How the heck can you keep these pesky homophones straight? Luckily, I have an easy way to remember. Let’s dive in. When to use peak vs peek vs pique: use this trick PEEK: You need your eyes to look quickly—or “peek”—at something. There are two e’s in eyes. […]