Whether you’re speaking or you’re writing, grammar plays a crucial role. However, the way we use and perceive it in writing and speaking varies significantly. Understanding these differences is key to becoming an effective communicator. Join us in this Creatinuum episode where we discuss all things about grammar—both when in speech or in writing.
Grammar in Speaking
When we speak, our grammar is often less rigid and more spontaneous than in writing. The fluid nature of conversation allows for a certain level of flexibility, and minor grammatical errors often go unnoticed. As discussed in our podcast episode, when we’re speaking, the focus tends to be on conveying the message rather than on the precise structure of sentences. Our brains naturally correct minor grammatical mistakes as we listen, allowing us to understand the speaker's intent without fixating on every word.
Take for example how we often use fillers and buffers—like "uh," "um," and "you know." This way, we give ourselves time to think and structure our thoughts. These are natural elements of spoken language and are generally accepted by listeners, who are more focused on the overall message and delivery than on grammatical precision.
Additionally, speech is more dynamic; it involves not just words, but also body language, intonation, and facial expressions, all of which contribute to the message. A speaker’s credibility is often more influenced by their confidence, tone, and delivery than by perfect grammar.
However, there are limits to this flexibility. Deliberate or frequent grammatical errors can affect a speaker's credibility, especially in formal or professional settings. The ability to speak grammatically correct English often enhances the perceived authority and intelligence of the speaker, making it a valuable skill, particularly when addressing an audience or participating in a formal discussion.
Grammar in Writing
Moving on, we also discuss in the podcast how grammar in writing demands a higher level of accuracy and consciousness. In spoken language, errors can be quickly forgotten. However, written language is permanent and subject to scrutiny. As readers, we all have the luxury of going back, re-reading, and analyzing the text, which makes grammatical mistakes more noticeable and less forgivable.
When we speak, once a word is spoken, it cannot be taken back or edited. In writing, though, our grammar becomes more visible, laid out in front of our readers, who can easily spot errors and inconsistencies. This is why grammar is often more important in writing than in speaking—mistakes are magnified, especially in texts like books, where readers expect a high level of linguistic precision.
Key Differences and the Consciousness Involved
One of the key differences between grammar in speaking and writing is the level of consciousness we bring to each. When we speak, we are often thinking on our feet, constantly gauging what we want to say next, and adjusting our speech in real-time. This spontaneity leaves little room for consciously thinking about grammar, as our primary focus is on the flow of conversation and the immediate exchange of ideas.
In contrast, writing allows for a more deliberate approach. We take our time to carefully construct sentences, choose the right words, and ensure grammatical correctness. The ability to revise and edit means that whatever we write can be polished and perfected, something that is not possible in spontaneous speech.
Expectations vs. Reality: The Speech We Give vs. The Speech We Want to Give
In both speaking and writing, there is often a gap between what we say and what we wish we said. In speaking, this is particularly pronounced because we have to respond in real-time, often without considering our words. This can lead to moments where we later think, “I should have said that differently” or “I shouldn’t have said that.” This is the reality of spoken communication—it's imperfect and ever-evolving.
Writing, on the other hand, offers the chance to get closer to the ideal expression of our thoughts. Since we can revise and edit, we can communicate our final text with the message we hope to deliver. This is why written communication is often more precise and well-structured than spoken language.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, perfect grammar is pretty much subjective—either you’re a person who cares about it or not. Of course, it’s important in both speaking and writing, but the levels of their importance really just varies differently.
Speaking allows for more flexibility and spontaneity, with less emphasis on grammatical precision, thanks to the dynamic nature of conversation and the supportive role of body language and intonation. Writing, however, demands a higher level of grammatical correctness, as it is a more permanent and scrutinized form of communication.
Listen in full to Creatinuum Episode 41: "Did I Get That Right?": Grammar in Speaking and Writing, available on Simplecast, Spotify, Apple, and other platforms.
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