I admit I’m a bit of a grammar geek. So you would think after a lifetime of speaking and reading the English language I would have it figured out, but I still make a load of mistakes. Knowing this, I hesitate to point out the grammar goofs I hear everyday, but sometimes I just can’t help myself. So for my first Grammar Goofs post, I bring a common mistake to the floor.

There seems to be some confusion about how to use “I” vs. “me.” This one is rampant. I hear this from the most highly educated and intelligent people I know. Before you comment that it really doesn’t matter,  I realize that in casual conversation or a quick text, few seem to care, but I do think that when you’re trying to communicate professionally, it’s a good idea to get it right.

Here’s just one example of a “goof” that I heard recently: “Are you joining Bill and I for dinner?”

What’s wrong with this? I’m no English teacher, but I thought “I” was to be used as a subject, not a pronoun. The good news is you don’t have to know the difference between a subject and a pronoun. There’s a simple way to get it right without breaking out your grammar guide.

Before you use “I” in a sentence like this, try omitting the “Bill and” and listen to how that sounds. Would you say “He’s joining I for dinner?” Probably not. That’s when you know that the pronoun “me” would be the better choice.

This trick also works for determining when to use “I” instead of “me.”

“Jane and me are working together on a school project.” Take Jane out of the picture and you get something like “Me am working on a project.” Doesn’t sound so hot, does it? Maybe using “I” here would be a better choice.

Hope this helps someone. By the way, I welcome you, no, I urge you to point out my grammar goofs and help me get it right. Thank you for your help!

Cheers!

Stacey