A guest post by editor Kimberly Hunt
Did you know that copy editing is more than correcting commas and running spell check?
When we copy edit a novel, we also check the geeky goodies like grammar and the often overlooked stuff like usage. Just because a word is listed in the dictionary and correctly spelled in your manuscript, doesn’t mean it’s the most appropriate choice to use.
The Chicago Manual of Style states, “While common usage can excuse many slipshod expressions, the standards of good usage make demands on writers and editors.” You may shrug and dismiss this post as too pedantic. Depending on the context and audience, perhaps common usage is fine.
First, consistency is what’s most important, but good usage should be a close second. We often see the following common usage concerns (notice the intentional choice to avoid calling these examples errors):
| When You Mean | Good Usage | Common Usage |
| Acceptable, correct, safe | All right | Alright (nonstandard) |
| Obvious | Flagrant | Blatant |
| To show contempt for | Flout | Flaunt |
| Inability to catch on fire | Nonflammable | Inflammable |
| Despite everything | Regardless | Irregardless (nonstandard) |
| Not interested | Uninterested | Disinterested |
My favorite usage corrections are the indisputable errors often caused by homophones.
When two words sound alike but have different meanings, it’s imperative to get the spelling correct in order to say what you mean. For example, both faze and phase are words found in the dictionary. However, phase as a verb means to carry out in planned stages, not a way to describe a character’s reaction or nonreaction.
Another common usage error frequently confused and misused by writers is discreet and discrete. Yes, two separate and distinct covers may exist for a romance novel, but the trend to offer discreet covers comes from a prudent desire to keep the steamy content unobtrusive.
Regardless, as an author, if you wish to flout the “rules” in favor of artistic expression and use nonstandard language in your books, it’s quite all right.
But as an editor, it’s my job to suggest a correction for you to accept or reject good usage.
So if you want reviews that don’t harp on copy editing basics like spelling, grammar, punctuation, and usage, consider the importance of word choice. While good usage is preferred, effective communication is essential for clarity and quality. Misusing words will cause confusion for your audience. Good usage follows the established standards even if language evolves over time.
Conveying your ideas precisely fulfills the readers’ expectation that they have purchased a book from a credible author who hires a professional editor. Choosing good usage reflects positively on your brand and reputation. Strive to deliver a quality product for your readers and they’ll reward you for respecting their intelligence with loyalty.
If you’re interested in more examples, see the comprehensive list provided by The Chicago Manual of Style section 5.220. Spend time understanding the difference now and prevent spending extra money on copy editing later.
And just for fun, share more examples you’ve seen in published books—no names, please!
Kimberly is an editor on the HEA Author Services team, but she also runs her own editing business and has a helpful newsletter you can join to receive editing tips.