English grammar is not fixed. It changes over time. Words and expressions that were once considered “wrong” or “bad grammar” can become fully accepted in modern English. Many rules that people learned in school were based on older traditions, personal opinions of grammar experts, or comparisons with Latin—not on how people actually speak and write.
Understanding these changes is important for ESL learners. It helps you recognize which “rules” are truly important and which are flexible. It also helps you sound more natural in modern English.
Below are 11 common terms and structures that were once criticized but are now widely accepted.
1. Singular “They”
In the past, teachers insisted that “he” should be used when gender was unknown. Today, singular “they” is fully accepted in formal and informal English.
Incorrect (old rule): If a student wants to pass, he must study.
Correct (modern English): If a student wants to pass, they must study.
Singular “they” is especially useful when gender is unknown or when referring to someone who uses “they” as a personal pronoun.
2. Ending a Sentence with a Preposition
Older grammar books said you should never end a sentence with a preposition. This rule came from Latin grammar. In modern English, it is completely natural.
Natural: This is the book I was looking for.
Unnatural: This is the book for which I was looking.
The second sentence is grammatically correct but sounds formal and stiff in everyday conversation.
3. Starting a Sentence with “And” or “But”
Many students were told never to begin a sentence with “and” or “but.” In fact, professional writers do this all the time.
She wanted to go. But she was too tired.
He studied hard. And he passed the exam.
Starting with a conjunction can make writing clearer and more dramatic.
4. “Hopefully” as a Sentence Adverb
Some critics once argued that “hopefully” could only mean “in a hopeful manner.” Today, it is widely accepted to mean “I hope.”
Hopefully, we will arrive on time.
This use is now standard in both spoken and written English.
5. Split Infinitives
A split infinitive happens when you put a word between “to” and the base verb.
She decided to quickly finish her homework.
Older rules said this was wrong. However, modern style guides accept split infinitives, especially when they make the sentence clearer or more natural.
6. “Contact” as a Verb
In the past, some people believed “contact” should only be a noun. Today, it is commonly used as a verb.
Please contact me tomorrow.
This usage is standard in business and everyday communication.
7. “Impact” as a Verb
Similar to “contact,” “impact” was once criticized as a verb. Now it is widely accepted.
The new law will impact small businesses.
However, in formal writing, some people still prefer “affect.”
8. “They” with Indefinite Pronouns
Using “they” with words like “everyone” or “someone” was once criticized. Today, it is normal.
Everyone should bring their notebook.
Someone left their phone on the table.
This construction avoids awkward phrases like “his or her.”
9. Double Negatives for Emphasis
In standard English, double negatives are usually incorrect. However, they were common in older English and are accepted in some dialects for emphasis.
I don’t know nothing about that. (Nonstandard but common in some dialects)
In formal standard English, you should still avoid double negatives. But linguists recognize that they are not “illogical”—they are simply part of certain language varieties.
10. “Between You and I”
Traditionally, “between you and me” is correct. “Between you and I” was considered incorrect. However, this form has become very common in spoken English.
Standard: This is between you and me.
Common (informal): This is between you and I.
In formal writing, you should still use “me.”
11. Using “Like” as a Conjunction
Older grammar rules said “like” should not replace “as” or “as if.” Today, it is common in informal English.
It looks like it’s going to rain.
She talks like she knows everything.
In very formal writing, “as” or “as if” may still be preferred.
Comparison Table: Then vs. Now
| Old Rule | Modern Usage | Accepted Today? |
|---|---|---|
| No singular “they” | Everyone forgot their keys. | Yes |
| No sentence-ending prepositions | Who are you talking to? | Yes |
| No split infinitives | To fully understand | Yes |
| No starting with “And/But” | But I disagree. | Yes |
| No “hopefully” as sentence adverb | Hopefully, we win. | Yes |
Why Do Grammar Rules Change?
Grammar changes because language is alive. People use language in ways that feel natural and efficient. If enough speakers use a structure consistently, it often becomes accepted over time.
Many older rules were based on personal preferences or attempts to make English follow Latin grammar patterns. Modern linguistics focuses more on how people actually use language.
Quick Summary: Key Takeaways
- English grammar changes over time.
- Some “old rules” are no longer strict rules.
- Singular “they,” split infinitives, and sentence-ending prepositions are now standard.
- Some forms (like “between you and I”) are common in speech but still avoided in formal writing.
- Always consider your audience and level of formality.
Conclusion
Many expressions that were once labeled as “bad grammar” are now normal parts of English. As an ESL learner, you should focus on clear communication and modern usage rather than memorizing outdated rules.
Language evolves, and good grammar means using English in a way that fits your context, audience, and purpose. By understanding these changes, you can write and speak with more confidence and flexibility.