Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Advertising Faults

It seems that Nissan automobiles have somewhat of a catch phrase, "Look closer." "Look" is a verb and should be modified by an adverb. Thus we may say, "Look closely," or, relative to the mentioned situation, "Look more closely." Now if Nissan thinks such style is pedantic for the average viewer, so be it. It is my purpose, though, to spread the word concerning such mistakes so you won't be learning or relearning improperly. I do believe that the media should set good examples. If folks are alerted, though, they can avoid falling into traps when the media falls short. Many years ago there was some controversy about the cigarette ad, "Winston tastes good like a cigarette should." "Like" should not be introducing an adverbial clause; ". . . as a cigarette should" would be correct. While some joked about the flaw, Winston laughed all the way to the bank as, if memory serves me properly, the number one selling cigarette for quite a few years.

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