writing

This weeks' writing post revolves around the correct usage of short forms in English.

Everything I will be writing about is adapted from the May issue of Spotlight magazine.

1. Short forms common in writing

Many common abbreviations have Latin or French origins:

AD (Anno Domini)- in the year of our Lord

cf. (confer)- compare with- cf. The New Fowler's

e.g. (exempli gratia) - for example- Try not to eat sweet foods, e.g. chocolate, cakes or ice cream.

etc. (et cetera)- and so on- We'll need drinks for the party: beer, wine, orange juice, etc.

i.e. (id est)- that is- The club is open only to adults, i.e. people over 18.

NB (nota bene)- note well- NB this door is locked from 2 p.m. to 8 a.m.

RSVP (réspondez s'il vous plait)-please reply- Come to our party, from ten till late. RSVP Tanja& Thomas

2. Everyday short forms

aka- also known as- Agatha Christie, aka "The Queen of Crime"

Nimby-not in my back yard- you hope to keep something unpleasant out of your neighbourhood

TGIF- Thank God it's Friday!- used at the end of the week

3. Small ads

If you want to rent accommodation, you might stumble across the following:

n/s prof non-smoking professional
refs reqd references required
320 pounds pcm 320 pounds rent per calendar month

If, on the other hand, you're looking for a partner, knowing this short forms may be very helpful:

GSOH good sense of humour
OHAC own house and car
WLTM would like to meet

4. Your task

Can you comprehend the abbreviations in this advert?

Pretty woman, slim, 40s, SOH, loving, intelligent, WLTM man for mutual appreciation, TLC, adventures and perhaps LTR. Hants, Box 0652.