Language Pitfalls: Nonnative English Speakers

Abstract

It goes without saying that someone who plays an instrument well will be able to produce pleasant music. This works for languages, too. Thus, writers who do not have a good command of the English language will find it harder to write with virtuosity. On the other hand, many nonnative English speakers are careful writers because they are far more conscious of possible mistakes than their English native colleagues. Many writers of non-English origin have learned the English language systematically and thoroughly and may thus be able to name the underlying rules and principles far better than those whose mother tongue is English.

It’s much easier to be critical than to be correct.

Benjamin Disraeli