The grammar rules we swear by (but secretly break)

We’ve all been taught to follow grammar rules to the letter, but the truth is, even professional writers like to bend (or flat-out break) a few.

Whether it’s to create a better flow or simply because a sentence sounds better that way, there are plenty of moments when following every single rule just isn’t necessary.

In fact, sometimes breaking the rules is exactly what your writing needs to sound more authentic, relatable, and engaging.

So, what are the most common grammar rules that writers love to break, and why do we do it?

Let’s take a look at some of the grey areas where even the pros - or at least I - think it’s okay to play by their own rules.

Ending sentences with ‘with’ or ‘for’

We’ve all been taught that certain words (like ‘with’ or ‘for’) shouldn’t be left hanging at the end of a sentence.

But let’s be honest: forcing sentences into a more ‘proper’ structure often makes them sound awkward and stuffy.

For example, instead of saying “Who are you going with?” you might have been told the ‘correct’ version is “With whom are you going?” Sounds a little too stiff, right?

In real life, most people don’t speak like that. The first version follows a more natural speech pattern, and feels conversational, which is a great way to connect with your readers.

Ending a sentence with a word like ‘with’ or ‘for’ keeps your writing feeling human and approachable. It flows better and reflects how people actually talk.

Remember: The goal isn’t to sound perfect - it’s to sound relatable.

Starting sentences with ‘and’ or ‘but’

Similarly, you might have also been taught that you should never start a sentence with ‘and’ or ‘but’.

It’s one of those grammar rules that gets drilled into us early on, but here’s the truth: breaking this rule can actually make your writing better.

Think about how you speak - you probably start sentences with ‘and’ and ‘but’ all the time. Sometimes, following this rule makes writing feel stiff. Starting with ‘and’ or ‘but’ keeps things conversational and creates a smoother, more relatable tone.

Breaking this rule can also help you create emphasis, keep the conversation flowing, and makes what you’re saying feel more natural.

For example: “I loved the movie. But the ending was disappointing.” That’s much punchier than trying to connect the sentences with a long-winded, more formal structure.

Starting a sentence with ‘and’ or ‘but’ can help to create a connection between your ideas and add a bit of extra impact.

Using contractions (like ‘it’s’ instead of ‘it is’)

You might have been told that contractions - like ‘it’s’ instead of ‘it is’ - don’t belong in your writing. And sure, for academic papers or super formal documents, you might avoid them. But when you’re writing to connect with people on your website or are creating content that’s meant to feel relatable, contractions are your best friend.

Why? Because we use contractions all the time in speech!

Writing “I can’t believe it” sounds a lot less like a Victorian child than “I cannot believe it”.

Using contractions in your writing helps it to feel less like an academic study, and more approachable and conversational - like you’re having a chat with your readers, not delivering a lecture.

Skipping contractions can make your writing sound overly formal or stiff. Adding them in keeps your tone light, friendly, and engaging, making it easier for readers to connect with what you’re saying.

Short, punchy sentences

We’re often taught to write full, detailed sentences, but here’s a secret: sometimes short, punchy sentences work better.

You know the ones - they’re quick, to the point, and have more impact. Instead of dragging out your ideas in long sentences, keeping things brief can actually help your message hit harder.

In copywriting, where you’re trying to grab attention and drive action, shorter sentences help get straight to the point. They make your content easier to read, and your ideas more memorable.

Short, sharp sentences cut through the noise.

They help keep your writing focused and engaging, and they work especially well when you need to deliver a message quickly, create a sense of urgency, and get someone to take action.

The Oxford comma debate

Ah, the Oxford comma - one of the most debated grammar rules out there. If you’re not sure what it means, it’s that little comma before the ‘and’ in a list.

The ‘debate’ around it is about whether or not you use it, and the answer is often a matter of personal style.

Some people swear by it, while others leave it out completely. Whether or not you use it often depends on context and how you want the sentence to flow.

Take this example: “I invited my friends, Beyoncé and the Queen.” Without the Oxford comma, it could sound like Beyoncé and the Queen are the friends you invited. Now, add the comma - “I invited my friends, Beyoncé, and the Queen” - and it’s clear they’re just part of a longer list.

But not every sentence needs that extra comma. Sometimes leaving it out makes the sentence feel cleaner or more direct, especially when the meaning is already clear.

The Oxford comma is all about emphasis and clarity. Use it when it adds something to your sentence, and leave it out when it doesn’t. The key is knowing when it helps, and when it’s just extra punctuation.

Breaking the rules (on purpose)

At the end of the day, grammar rules are there to guide us, but they aren’t set in stone.

As a writer, knowing when to break the rules can make all the difference in how your content connects with your audience. Whether it’s dropping that Oxford comma for a cleaner sentence or starting with ‘but’ to add a little punch, bending the rules allows you to bring more personality and flow to your writing.

The trick? Do it with intention.

Each time you bend a rule, make sure it’s for the benefit of clarity, emphasis, or style. After all, writing is about communication, and sometimes the best way to communicate is by ditching rigid rules in favour of a more human approach.

And if you’re looking for a helping hand in finding that perfect balance between polished grammar and engaging style, I’m here to support you.

Whether it’s editing, proofreading, or full-on content writing, I can help you to write content that stands out - by breaking the rules in all the right ways.

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