English for Today by Ganiu Abisoye Bamgbose (GAB)
STANDARD ENGLISH
I want a car with air conditioner (not, air condition). The machine itself is air conditioner and the verb form is air-condition: Some people air-condition their garage.
He was born with a silver spoon in his mouth (not, He was born with a silver spoon). Idioms are fixed expressions and the standard form of the expression is to be born with a silver spoon in one’s mouth.
He has not drunk water since he ate (not, drank). Many Nigerians don’t feel comfortable using the verb “drunk” except they are referring to alcohol. “Drunk” is the past participle form of drink and is not only used in reference to alcohol.
Ganiu Abisoye Bamgbose (GAB)
Academic Advisor, Distance Learning Centre, University of Ibadan;
&
Doctoral Student of English, University of Ibadan.
