There are/It is

There are a number of topics which could be touched upon in writing about our First Amendment rights.

There is an increasing need in our society for changing the way we perceive the elderly.

There will be 28 people taking this course.

There are two parts to this problem.

It is my recommendation that she be given a position here at EGS. (see also “superfluous nominalization”)

In the White Bear School District there is a significant threat that has been imposed as a result of decreased funding.

There are generally several people involved in the creation of these IEP’s.

It is a fact that sales have been dropping.

How often is there that confused, irritated, and frustrated customer on the other end of the phone or letter?


Passive voice

The work was completed by John over three weeks ago.

Enclosed find questions, called Interrogatories, to be answered by you.

Our office has received notification from SSB that a purchase of shares took place in the above client’s mutual fund account.

It is necessary to increase the monthly cost of Service Plus by $1 beginning with your next bill.


“To be” constructions

Some problems that have been observed and reported on the survey were that the shelves run out of books too quickly and the wait to pay for books is too long.

Some of the special events I taped were my family reunion, my grandfather’s birthday, and my cousin’s wedding.

Cheryl believes that there needs to be extra help during the beginning of each semester. (see also “there is/it is”)


Clichés/businesese

Since time is of the essence in this matter, we would appreciate hearing from you by April 15.

Please be advised that while we appreciate your prompt response to our request, and your consideration in this matter, we are unable to process your reassignment request due to the fact that the FOCUS message must come from yourself (the manager).


Superfluous nominalization

The contractor has agreed to provide maintenance for the warehouse for six months.

I conducted an analysis of the faulty circuit.

The Vice President asked me to provide justification for the purchase of a new photocopier.


“Verbing” (see also “businessese)

Bottom-line it for me.

B group has been tasked with implementation of the new policy.


Sample ¶ (including there is/it is, to be, singular/plural agreement, etc.)

The houses are mostly two stories with all stucco on the outside. There are beautiful ferns, flower gardens and green foiliage everywhere. The first floor typically has a large kitchen, dining room, living room, laundry room and small bath. Most homes have a spiral rod [sic] iron staircase to the second floor to a master suite with a Jacuzzi and large bath, and three other good size bedrooms with another full bath. Most homes have a large deck off the master suite that winds around the house to look over the pool and ocean. All rooms have ceiling fans that circulate a beautiful breeze off the ocean. There are maids that live in her own little house behind each home. They cook all the meals, clean and do the gardening.