Grammar Question (oh boy, here we go again...)

Becky Writes · Aug 5, 2006

When writing dialogue, can I use grammatically incorrect words? I'm thinking that I can because people don't always talk correctly, but is there a rule?

This is a sample sentence from my WIP:

[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Casey cocked her head to the side. “You guys aren't shy at all, are you? Whatever's on your mind you just throw it right on out there.”[/FONT]

Obviously, "whatever's" is a contraction, but not "correct." I have said the sentence out loud several times, and I say "whatever's" as opposed to "whatever is."

So? Yes? No?

Soccer Mom · Aug 5, 2006

Yup. In dialogue, write the way the character would actually speak. FYI-there is a grammar thread with some real wizards (Sorry. Not those kinds.) who can help sort out your grammar issues. Plus it is an interesting read.

scribbler1382 · Aug 5, 2006

Yes. In fact, you should. Makes the dialogue sound more real. Don't go for full reality of course, because most people speak in fragments and it would drive the reader nuts. Same goes for dialect/accents. A little goes a long way.

DeborahM · Aug 5, 2006

My vote is: Even though it is incorrect - write it as it is said in real life. This adds depth to your characters making them come alive showing their own personalities or quirks which makes the dialogue more believable.

Becky Writes · Aug 5, 2006

Wow, y'all are quick!

Thanks!

DeborahM · Aug 5, 2006

Nothing else better to do at this given time. Besides, this place gives me lots of laughs!

Jamesaritchie · Aug 5, 2006

Becky Writes said:
When writing dialogue, can I use grammatically incorrect words? I'm thinking that I can because people don't always talk correctly, but is there a rule?

This is a sample sentence from my WIP:

[FONT=Times New Roman, serif]Casey cocked her head to the side. “You guys aren't shy at all, are you? Whatever's on your mind you just throw it right on out there.”[/FONT]
Obviously, "whatever's" is a contraction, but not "correct." I have said the sentence out loud several times, and I say "whatever's" as opposed to "whatever is."

So? Yes? No?

"Whatever's on your mind" may not be formal, but there's nothing grammatically incorrect about it. It's a perfectly valid and grammatical contraction.

Punctuation is another story.

But, yes, dialogue should always reflect the way real people talk.

reph · Aug 5, 2006

Jamesaritchie said:
Punctuation is another story.

Right. Becky, you need a comma after "mind."

Becky Writes · Aug 5, 2006

Yes, I see that now.

I didn't know this Grammar forum was here. That's good, because I haven't had a grammar lesson since eighth grade.

Grammar Question (oh boy, here we go again...)

Becky Writes

Go Tarheels!

Soccer Mom

Crypto-fascist

scribbler1382

Write For You, Edit For The Reader

DeborahM

I need espresso & chocolate!

Becky Writes

Go Tarheels!

DeborahM

I need espresso & chocolate!

Jamesaritchie

reph

Fig of authority

Becky Writes

Go Tarheels!