Nasher-

http://hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com/2010/04...an-you-at-everything.html

The Alot is Better Than You at Everything
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Most here (with English as second or third language) are more easily understood than alot of people that I have to deal with on a daily basis.

I rate myself as knowing/understanding 1.2 languages - .8 English and .3 Spanish.

My stumbling word is "affect" and "effect".

And to think that I only discovered this thread today. I will have to make a point of revisiting it often.

Nasher, feel free to use either of these. While not technically correct, most native English speakers will understand your meaning. A lot or 'cause would be the proper usage.

There is one particular faux pas that just grates on my nerves. I can't remember what it was exactly, but it has something to do with time and having just happened. I'll post here next time I encounter it.

Myself only having a rudimentary grasp of Spanish, I applaud the people who have managed to master English to any level of proficiency. I don't think I could have learned it if I wasn't born into it. And yes, Sekerob, it is comprised of far more than four different languages. Even for native speakers this becomes a challenge because there is no rule without numerous exceptions. Even the exceptions have exceptions depending on the language of origin.

Anyway, back from my digression, I'll bring to this thread all of the corrections that I am hesitant to make in other threads for fear of offending people.