Correcting Grammatical Errors: The Importance of Using "There Are"

When it comes to the English language, precision in sentence structure is crucial for effective communication. One common mistake that often arises is the improper use of the phrase "there's" instead of "there are." This article will explore why it is important to use "there are" when referring to a plural noun such as "words."

Understanding the Correct Sentence Structure

The phrase "there are" is used to introduce a plural noun that follows it. The verb needs to agree with the number of the noun, which means if the noun is singular, the verb would be "is," and if the noun is plural, the verb should be "are." For example:

Correct: There are too many words on the page.

Incorrect: There's too many words on the page.

The Prevalence of Incorrect Usage

The incorrect use of "there's" instead of "there are" is a common issue in spoken English. This error often occurs because people tend to use contractions for convenience, especially in informal settings or casual speech. However, it is important to note that even in spoken English, proper grammar is essential for clarity and effective communication.

Impact of Using the Incorrect Phrase

Using the incorrect phrase "there's" instead of "there are" can have a significant impact on the clarity and precision of the message you are trying to convey. When someone says "there's" instead of "there are," it can lead to misinterpretation and confusion. For instance, in the sentence "There's too many words on the page," it may seem as though the speaker is referring to a single noun "many." Such a mistake can make the sentence grammatically incorrect and less effective in conveying the intended meaning.

Tips for Correcting Grammar Errors

Here are some tips to help you avoid making this grammatical error:

Identify the noun after "there is" or "there are." If the noun is plural, use "there are." If it is singular, use "there is." For example: Focus on paying attention to details and proofreading your work. Read your sentences aloud to ensure they sound correct. Often, hearing the sentence can help you catch errors that you might miss when reading silently. Use tools like grammar checkers, though it is important to understand that these are not always 100% accurate.

Examples of Proper Usage

Here are some examples of how to use "there are" properly:

There are several important points to consider before making a decision. There are many different opinions on the matter. There are too many errors in this document.

Conclusion

Proper grammar is a fundamental aspect of effective communication. Using "there are" instead of "there's" when referring to plural nouns like "words" ensures clarity and precision in your writing. By being mindful of this grammatical rule, you can improve the quality of your written and spoken English, making your communication more effective and professional.

References and Further Reading

To learn more about this topic and other aspects of English grammar, consider consulting the following resources:

Proper Use of There Is vs. There Are There Are vs. There Is