Prescriptive Grammar (Rules of “Correct” Language Use)

Prescriptive grammar dictates how a language should be used based on established rules. It sets standards for what is considered “correct” or “incorrect” in writing and speech.

Characteristics:

• Defines formal rules of usage.
• Follows traditions of “proper” language.
• Common in education, style guides, and dictionaries.

Examples:

• Split infinitives: A prescriptive rule says, “Don’t split infinitives.”
  • Incorrect: “To quickly run”
  • Correct: “To run quickly”
• Double negatives: Standard grammar discourages them.
  • Incorrect: “I don’t have none.”
  • Correct: “I don’t have any.”
• Who vs. Whom:
  • Correct: “Whom did you call?” (formal)
  • Correct: “Who called you?”

Use Cases:

• Taught in schools and grammar books.
• Used in professional and academic writing.
• Helps maintain formal and standardized communication.

Criticism of Prescriptive Grammar

While prescriptive grammar ensures consistency, some argue it’s too rigid. Language evolves, and spoken usage often differs from formal rules. Many rules, like avoiding split infinitives, are based on outdated traditions rather than natural speech patterns.

Descriptive Grammar (How Language Is Actually Used)

Descriptive grammar focuses on how people naturally speak and write. Instead of enforcing rules, it observes and records the patterns used by native speakers.

Characteristics:

• Describes real-world language use without judgment.
• Accepts variations, dialects, and language change.
• Used in linguistic research and analysis.

Examples:

• Who vs. Whom: Many native English speakers say:
  • Common usage: “Who did you talk to?”
  • Prescriptive grammar: “To whom did you talk?”
• Double negatives: Found in many dialects despite prescriptive rules.
  • Example: “I don’t know nothing.”
• Ain’t in casual speech:
  • Example: “He ain’t coming.” (common in informal speech)

Use Cases:

• Used by linguists to study language variation and change.
• Helps develop dictionaries that reflect real usage.
• Important for studying dialects, slang, and spoken language.

Wrap-Up: The Difference Between Prescriptive and Descriptive Grammar

Prescriptive grammar tells people how they should use language, focusing on formal rules and correctness.
Descriptive grammar, on the other hand, observes how language is actually used, accepting changes and variations.

Both are important—prescriptive grammar maintains standard communication,   while descriptive grammar helps us understand how language evolves in everyday life.