Grandma's Grammar Guide and Better Ways with Words and Phrases

Are You Being Paid by the Word?

If so, the following phrases from an actual document can hardly be improved. (Alternatives—preferable if your goal is clarity, not quantity—are in italics.)

The following list of additional information
The following information

Used for the publicity and fundraising efforts
Used for publicity and fundraising

Spaces specifically designed for child care
Spaces for child care or spaces designed for child care (or ...for children)

Is located adjacent to the corporate headquarters
Is next to corporate headquarters

Children have the opportunity to play safely
Children can play safely

Community activities to assist in providing seniors with healthy and active lifestyles
Community activities to help seniors lead healthy and active lives

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Q. What’s wrong with this sentence? “Company X decided to build a model facility as part of their expansion.”

A. Pronouns should agree with their antecedents. Company X is singular, so change the possessive pronoun their to its.