English

>>> Basics of English Grammar and Composition

What is Grammar?

Grammar is the general term for the science of the languages. It deals mainly with the changes made in the form of the words and the way in which they are arranged in the sentence. It serves to improve one’s command of a language; but the study neither is nor should be an end in itself. It must always be a means to an end—to learn the art of the right use of the language.

Ø  The Sentence and the Phrase:-  when we speak or write, we use words.  We use these words in groups; as

1.       Honesty is the best policy.

2.       On the table

The first group make complete sense. It is therefore a sentence. the second group makes sense, but the sense is not complete, it is therefore, a phrase. Thus a group of words which makes complete sense is called a Sentence. And the group of words which makes sense but not complete sense is called a phrase.

Ø  The kind of Sentences:-  sentences are of five kinds, these are briefly discussed below:-

1.       Assertive Sentences--- sentences of the kind make statements or assertions; as,

§  Islamabad is the capital of Pakistan (Affirmative)

§  Death is not the end of life (Negative)

§  She did go to School (Emphatic)

If a statement is positive (as in the first example), it is called an Affirmative Sentence, but if a statement is not positive ( as in the Second example) it is called Negative Sentence. And if a statement is forceful ( as in third example) , it is called an Emphatic Sentences.

2.       Introgetive Sentences:- Sentences of the kind ask questions; as,

§  Did you post that letter yesterday?

§  How old are you?

3.       Imperative Sentences--- Sentences of the Kind express commands or requests; as,

§  Bring me a cup of tea. ( Command)

§  Lend me your camera please (Request)

An imperative Sentence may also express some advice or make some prohibition; as.

§  Respect your elders. (Advice)

§  Do not tell a lie ( Prohibition)

4.       Exclamatory Sentences: Sentence of the kind express strong feelings or emotions; as,

§  How foolish I have been!

§  Hurrah! We have won the day.

5.       Optative Sentences:- Sentences of this kind ecpresse some wish; as,

§  May you live long!

§  Would that I were rich!