The 3 Most Common Writing Mistakes on Holiday Greetings

Holiday greetings often suffer from three common writing mistakes. First, incorrect use of contractions like ”tis” can confuse the reader. Making sure to place the apostrophe correctly is crucial. Second, misusing RSVP is frequent. The term already means ‘please respond,’ so avoid redundancy by not saying ‘please RSVP.’ Finally, errors in pluralizing family names occur often. Add an ‘s’ for most surnames, and use ‘es’ for names ending in ‘s’ or ‘z.’ Avoid using apostrophes when pluralizing.

Contraction Mistakes

One common mistake in holiday greetings is the incorrect use of the contraction ”tis.’ ‘Tis is a contraction of ‘it is,’ first used in the fifteenth century. It makes an annual appearance around the holidays.

To use it correctly, place the apostrophe before the ‘t’ in ”tis.” This small mark is essential. Without it, the word is incorrect and can cause confusion. For instance, ”tis the season’ is correct, while ’tis the season’ is not.

Ensuring the apostrophe is in the correct spot keeps your holiday greeting grammatically accurate. Paying attention to these details can make your messages more polished and professional. Avoiding this common mistake will enhance the quality of your holiday communications.

Misusing RSVP

Misusing RSVP is a common error in holiday invitations. RSVP is a French acronym, meaning ‘répondez s’il vous plaît,’ or ‘please respond.’ Including ‘please’ before RSVP is redundant and can sound like pleading. Using RSVP alone is sufficient to request a response.

Another option is to simply state ‘please respond’ if you prefer English. It’s important to avoid these mistakes to maintain a professional tone in your holiday greetings. Misusing RSVP can confuse guests and detract from the formality of your invitation.

Always double-check your wording to confirm clarity and correctness. Proper use of RSVP ensures your invitations are clear and respectful, encouraging timely responses without unnecessary repetition.

Name Errors

Errors in writing family names can help guarantee accurate holiday greetings. Incorrectly pluralizing or misspelling a family’s name can make your card look unprofessional.

Here are some tips to avoid these errors:

• Add an ‘s’: For most surnames, adding an ‘s’ at the end is the correct way to indicate more than one family member (e.g., The Smiths).
• Surnames ending in ‘s’ or ‘z’: Use ‘es’ to pluralize (e.g., The Joneses).
• No apostrophes: Avoid using apostrophes when pluralizing names as it indicates possession, not plurality (e.g., The Smith’s is incorrect).

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Make My Holiday Greetings More Personal?

To make your holiday greetings more personal, address recipients by name and include specific details or memories shared. Add a heartfelt message or personal note. Handwrite your cards if possible, as it adds a warm, personal touch.

What Are Some Creative Ways to Sign off Holiday Cards?

Creative ways to sign off holiday cards include using phrases like “Warm Wishes,” “Season’s Greetings,” “Joy and Peace,” and “With Love.” Adding a personal touch, such as a short note or family photo, enhances the sentiment.

How Do I Choose the Right Holiday Greeting for Different Cultures?

Choosing the right holiday greeting for different cultures requires understanding their traditions. Research common phrases and customs. Use inclusive language, such as “Happy Holidays” or “Season’s Greetings,” to respect diverse celebrations and beliefs.

Should I Include a Family Photo in My Holiday Card?

Including a family photo in your holiday card is a personal choice. It can add a warm, personal touch and help recipients feel connected. Make sure the photo is of good quality and appropriate for the occasion.

What Are Some Eco-Friendly Options for Sending Holiday Greetings?

Consider digital holiday cards to reduce paper waste. Recycled paper is another eco-friendly option. Plantable cards embedded with seeds offer a unique touch. For postage, consider carbon-neutral shipping options. Eco-friendly greetings help protect the environment.