Question for the flist-mind

[thismaz]

Dear flist,

I think, for once, this is a question directed more towards the Brits on my flist.

The word 'alright'.

Is that an acceptable spelling?

Or would you always spell it as two words?

Would you feel differently, depending on whether you were writing narrative or dialogue?

Any and all opinion welcome.

*hugs wonderful flist-mind*

Comments

[llama1412.livejournal.com]

I have to agree with this, based on what I know. From what I've heard, 'alright' only became part of the dictionary through common usage. It was originally "all right", but people started shortening it. However, common usage does define our dictionary, so, unless it's formal writing, it's probably more down to the author's choice as to which to use.

[thismaz.livejournal.com]

Wombat's dictionary is 1969, mine is 1986 and the one British person who doesn't use alright is younger. If I wanted to jump to conclusions, I might say that it's like we were acquiring accepted use of it over here, but under American influence, are now losing it again. Meanwhile, smwright is complaining about it entering American English. *g* Got to love the irony, if that is the case.

[llama1412.livejournal.com]

It is pretty ironic, isn't it? XD
I have to admit, as an American, I dislike it, but I see it all to often. However, I guess it's really just a matter of what people are taught and what looks better in context.
A lot of grammar (at least, the way I think it should be) seems to be for aesthetic purposes and flow. So really, it's author's choice.

[thismaz.livejournal.com]

Yes, you are right about many grammar 'rules'. They are designed to help the reader read and understand, but if they get in the way, many of them should be ignored.