Grammar Tip: "Stationary" vs "Stationery"

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JustPlainJo

That's a good mnemonic too, Mary Eileen. I almost like yours better, lol!

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Maryeileen

The mnemonic I use for stationery is similar to yours, Jo. StationERy is used for writing a lettER.

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GailNY

The grammar tip I always remember - (principle or principal). When you need to spell the principal of your school, use principal (he is your pal - last 3 letters of the word). It always amazes me how some things you always remember - don't ask me what I wore to work yesterday!

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JustPlainJo

I love all this feedback! Miredor, I like your nun's take on this commonly-confused pair.
What cracks me (and my family) up is, I can still spot misspellings, even with a screen-reader program. I know my spelling skills have suffered because of it, so I try to remind myself of proper spellings frequently.
And for my take on "than vs then," here's the link:
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf13852086.tip.html

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PainterLee

Keep the tips coming! I am a huge fan of grammar!

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mirador

Long ago in elementary school, the nun who taught us English gave us a hint about Stationery/Stationary that I have used ever since. The hint was that the "a" in Stationary stands for "always," as in "always in the same spot." Never forgetting that simple tip made sure I've used the correct spelling for the past 50 years.

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musicat

This was a good tip; and it made me think of another one that I see all the time "then" and "than". I can't believe how often I see someone write "I did this, than I did that." Or, "This is bigger then that." I guess then goes with when, so maybe that is a good way to remember. :)

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jsham

This reminds me of my bane: I could never remember how to spell promise until I figured out it contains no 'ice'.

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muttmom

Loved it. Spelling, as you get older seems to fade, just because of not using it on a daily basis. On the internet lots has come back but tips like this are super for my tired brain.

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Keeper

Great tip.Thanks.