Editor: Kee Thuan
Chye
Let's face it. Our English could do with a leg up.
Especially in this fast-paced world of the Internet, when access to
knowledge requires proficiency in the language. That is why The Star
has, since April 2001, embarked on a campaign to promote the correct use of English. As
we are inviting every Malaysian to come in with us on this, we're
calling our campaign Mind Our English. The campaign is being
promoted in our print version but you can also check us out on this
site where we will include useful links and also multi-media clips
when appropriate. To get in touch with the campaign people, email english@thestar.com.my
May 24: Salty language
Your questions answered by FADZILAH AMIN.
May 24: Boob watch
Readers spot instances of poor English usage.
May 24: Open channel
Sent in by Goh Aik Liang, Liyue, Karen and Meng2.
May 23: Is this related to the marking scheme?
Salt brings out the flavour of the blandest dishes, and adds punch to many idiomatic phrases too.
May 23: Boob Watch
Readers spot instances of poor English usage.
May 18: Informal or what?
In looking at any type of “professional” writing, we should remember that one of the key aspects to look at is the style or genre norms that have become accepted as the standard in the area.
May 18: The cutting edge of English
Formal or informal use of idiomatic expression is rarely heard in the Malaysian classroom today. Schoolroom English today is more literal than literary, more lean and mean than meaningfully luxuriant.
May 17: It takes two to tango
Further adventures of Eh Poh Nim, by LYDIA TEH.
May 17: More about that marriage vow phrase
FADZILAH AMIN answers your questions on English usage.
May 16: Is ‘white gold’ acceptable?
FADZILAH AMIN answers your questions on the English language.
May 16: Rubber, pants and fanny
Highlight on some interesting facts on the use of “rubber” and “eraser”.
May 16: Glad English is not offered here
Readers spot instances of poor English usage.
May 11: Yes, but I really meant ...?
The Business of English: By GUY PERRING.
May 11: How the subjunctive works
Open Channel: By Dr Lim Chin Lam, Penang.
May 11: Boob watch
Readers spot instances of poor English usage.
May 10: Teachers, let go of the old ways
Lynne McGREADY decided to write this article after watching many of her own students lose confidence in their ability to enhance their English language skills.
May 10: Idiomania
By OH TEIK THEAM
May 10:Boob Watch
Readers spot instances of poor English usage.
May 9: Is it eraser or rubber?
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY FADZILAH AMIN
May 4: Assert yourself
ASSERTIVENESS is linked to self-esteem and considered an important communication skill. By Guy Perring.
May 4: More on ‘till death do us part’
Open Channel from Jordan MacVay.
May 4: Boob watch
Readers spot instances of poor English usage.
May 3: Double-cross and doublespeak
Doubles suggest partnerships such as tennis partners, extra bounty as in doubling of profits, and also duplicity or cheating. With such a rich variety of meanings, it’s no wonder that this word forms part of many colourful expressions.
May 2: Is it ‘blind salary’?
FADZILAH AMIN answers your questions on English usage.
May 2: Test your word power
Wordplay is a film about crossword puzzles and avid crossword puzzle doers. It “stars” Reader’s Digest contributor Will Shortz. For this quiz, we’ve used short words that most true puzzle people know – and a few toughies that some may not.
