Ha! Another “Expert” Crumbles

First the OED changed it’s mind. Now the esteemed AP Style Manual caves! What did I tell you? You have to create your own Style Manual.

NEWS FLASH: AP Style Manual now says it’s okay to use hopefully as an adverb! As in “Hopefully you’ll start your own Style Manual soon!

It raineth on the just
And on the unjust, we know,
And those who speak correctly
And those who don’t, and so
Perhaps it doesn’t matter
If grammar rules pertain,
But I have Yankee tickets
And I hope it doesn’t rain.

(Make that: Hopefully it won't rain”.) Thank you, Charles Osgood!

Three Downers: If, Hope, But

If… hope… but…These words look innocuous enough, but they pack connotations that are extremely negative.

“If you agree, we can continue.”  (There’s a distinct chance you will not agree.)
“I hope you like what you see.” (Likewise, you probably won’t like it at all.)
“I like your style, really, but…” (Well, you know what comes next.) Yes, “really” falls into this category as well, when used excessively. Always question your date who insists, “I really do like you, but…”

Keep your writing on the up and up, positive, euphoric, hopeful even, and notice the positive responses you attract.