Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing
What’s wrong with "'til"? Why tiny words control conversations. How many cookies?
Mar 25, 2025
'Til may seem like a fun alternative to until, but you'll learn why it's frowned upon by style guides. Discover the hidden power of interjections like 'um' and 'huh,' which are crucial for keeping conversations flowing and conveying meaning. These tiny words aren't just filler; they can even challenge AI's conversation skills! Plus, enjoy a humorous dive into family expressions, including a cookie catchphrase that will resonate with anyone who's shared a laugh over quirky phrases!
17:25
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast clarifies that while 'till' and 'until' can be used interchangeably, many style guides recommend avoiding the apostrophe version, 'til.'
- Interjections like 'um' and 'huh' are vital for conversation flow, serving as cues for engagement and understanding in dialogues.
Deep dives
Understanding 'Until' and 'Till'
The words 'until' and 'till' are often considered interchangeable when referring to a period of time leading up to an event. Despite 'till' sometimes being viewed as informal, they both serve the same grammatical purpose and can be used without ambiguity. Many style guides advise against the use of 'till' with an apostrophe (TIL), emphasizing the correctness of simply using 'till' or 'until.' While 'until' has historical precedence as the older term, both words are valid, allowing speakers to choose based on context or personal preference.
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