Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing What’s wrong with "'til"? Why tiny words control conversations. How many cookies?
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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!
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Using Until and Till
- "Until" and "till" (T-I-L-L) are interchangeable when discussing time duration.
- To avoid any controversy, use "until" and never use "'til."
Importance of Interjections
- Interjections like "um" and "huh" are important in conversations.
- They act as signals to regulate conversational flow and negotiate understanding.
The Universal "Huh"
- The interjection "huh" is a universal repair signal used across languages.
- Its simple form makes it efficient for quick communication fixes.