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(Definition, Examples, Types, How to Write Them)</h1> <div bind="b4d36f25-3a5e-8c0b-ebc8-a80567a94714" class="featured-image-wrap"> <img src="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/stock-4-7-1024x683.jpeg" height="auto" style="-moz-border-radius:10px;-webkit-border-radius:10px;border-radius:10px;margin-bottom:40px;" alt="anecdote" /> </div> </div> </div> <div bind="80e03a2d-a20f-6efc-c0d9-14bc49b22dd9" class="article-body wf-section"> <div bind="bc878838-ab40-9492-e3bd-2479e727ee0e" class="article-body"> <div bind="bc0209be-976e-1d43-38b0-3a9a8847699c" class="container w-container"> <div bind="085bf5dc-f87e-1752-2b64-0aa48fd35121" class="w-richtext"> <p><strong>What is <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/a-or-an/">an</a> anecdote? How does an anecdote work?</strong> Anecdotes are short stories about interesting topics that typically <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/has-vs-have/">have</a> a single lesson or theme. Anecdotes are almost similar <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/to-vs-too/">to</a> stories that friends tell among themselves. But, when employed in literature, they <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/may-vs-can/">may</a> do more <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/then-vs-than/">than</a> just pass <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/a-vs-the/">the</a> time.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="800" height="441" src="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote.png" alt="What is an anecdote?" class="wp-image-5989" srcset="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote.png 800w, https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-300x165.png 300w, https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-768x423.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">What is an anecdote?</figcaption></figure></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="what-is-an-anecdote"></span>What is an anecdote?<span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h2> <p><a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anecdote" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anecdotes</a> are stories that are self-contained and brief. The majority of anecdotes focus on a single, straightforward theme or incident. They can be factual or made up or can be a real incident mixed with some embellishment.</p> <p>Anecdotes can be conveyed using different <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/tones-in-writing/">tones</a>, ranging from lighthearted jokes to grave warnings. They also typically concentrate solely on one character.</p> <figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><tbody><tr><td>Device</td><td>Definition</td></tr><tr><td>Anecdote /ˈanəkˌdōt/ (<a href="https://grammarbrain.com/noun/">noun</a>)</td><td>a short amusing or interesting story about a real incident or person.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="purpose-of-an-anecdote"></span>Purpose of an anecdote<span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h2> <p>Anecdotes can be used for a number of purposes. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anecdote" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anecdotes</a>, when used in both nonfiction and fiction as a literary device, have a greater significance. </p> <p>For instance, some anecdotes provide the readers with a better grasp of a character’s background or motivations <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/bye-vs-by/">by</a> describing them in a manner that doesn’t match the central narrative. </p> <p>They are used to introduce backstory or character information. Authors usually <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/use-vs-utilize/">use</a> them to share some <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/passed-vs-past/">past</a> story of their character usually to provide substance and intrigue. </p> <p>They also offer a good way to fill in plot holes in the narrative or to impede its flow. And are typically used in real life to convey an important message in a lighthearted way rather than a direct explanation.  </p> <p>Good anecdotes use rhetoric to their advantage. Sentimental language is usually used in inspirational anecdotes to touch the heart of the listener or reader. </p> <p>Similarly, authors may use profanity or slang in humorous anecdotes to make them appear even funnier.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="441" src="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-1.png" alt="Anecdote types" class="wp-image-5988" srcset="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-1.png 800w, https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-1-300x165.png 300w, https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-1-768x423.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Anecdote types</figcaption></figure></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="anecdotes-the-different-types"></span>Anecdotes: The different types<span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h2> <p><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/there-their-theyre/">There</a> is no formal classification of <a href="https://examples.yourdictionary.com/examples-of-anecdotes.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anecdotes</a>. But they can be broadly divided into different groups based on the purpose they serve. </p> <p>These include:</p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="441" src="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-2.png" alt="Motivational anecdote" class="wp-image-5987" srcset="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-2.png 800w, https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-2-300x165.png 300w, https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-2-768x423.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Motivational and inspirational anecdote</figcaption></figure></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="inspirational-or-motivational-anecdotes"></span><strong>Inspirational or motivational anecdotes</strong><span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h3> <p>Anecdotes can be used by elders or experienced people to motivate youngsters by describing the challenges they have faced in their <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/lives-or-lifes/">lives</a> and how they are willing to assist them. Inspirational anecdotes are a powerful writing technique that can be used to evoke specific emotions in the reader. </p> <p>This is an especially effective technique in emotional and <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/persuasive-writing/">persuasive writing</a>. Inspirational stories frequently center on extraordinary experiences that occurred to regular individuals that the listener or reader can relate to. </p> <p>Writers frequently use motivational stories to emotionally appeal to their readers. These stories can convince the readers that difficult times will pass after some time and better days are ahead.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Some examples include:</h4> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>A professor beginning his first session by explaining the struggles <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/personal-pronouns/">he</a> faced with the said <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/subject-of-a-sentence/">subject</a> and how he overcame them.</li> <li>A dog shelter volunteer recounting stories of the successful rehoming of several rescue animals over the <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/years-years-years/">years</a> and how they, with the help of families, found many dogs their forever homes.</li> <li>A manager recounting his early days at the company and the difficulties he faced with a group of new recruits on their induction day.</li> <li>Members of a youth organization telling stories to a group of young people about the volunteer work they have done over the years and how it changed their lives and the lives of those they helped.</li> </ul> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="441" src="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-3.png" alt="Reminiscent anecdote" class="wp-image-5986" srcset="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-3.png 800w, https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-3-300x165.png 300w, https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-3-768x423.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Reminiscent anecdote</figcaption></figure></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="reminiscent-anecdotes"></span><strong>Reminiscent anecdotes</strong><span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h3> <p>The majority of anecdotes focus on the past. In anecdotes, people usually look back fondly on special periods of their lives and share the happiness of those times with others. These fond tales usually build an idealized view of the past by evoking feelings of longing or nostalgia. </p> <p>But this reminiscing may not always be happy. Sometimes depressing memories can creep up in the stories, giving rise to a <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/past-tense-of-felt/">feeling</a> of melancholy or despair.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Some examples include:</h4> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>A father recounts to his daughter a trip his family took when he <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/was-vs-were/">was</a> a child.</li> <li>A kid shares an account of his best vacation to Disney Land during a discussion about theme parks.</li> <li>A senior doctor shares his favorite experiences in the ER with the new interns.</li> <li>A war veteran recount his experiences during deployment of how war can change common people with young soldiers.</li> </ul> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="441" src="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-4.png" alt="Humorous anecdote" class="wp-image-5985" srcset="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-4.png 800w, https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-4-300x165.png 300w, https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-4-768x423.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Humorous anecdote</figcaption></figure></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="humorous-anecdotes"></span><strong>Humorous anecdotes</strong><span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h3> <p>Anecdotes started out as stories that people <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/would-vs-will/">would</a> share in groups to amuse one another. Writers now use jokes to convey a much more complex topic in a lighthearted way. A humorous anecdote can be used to cheer people up following a significant or dramatic plot development in a story. </p> <p>Similarly, it can also provide audiences or readers with a brief diversion from the main plot and give them something to laugh about.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Some examples of funny anecdotes include:</h4> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>A boy telling a humorous story to his friends while sitting around a campfire on a school trip.</li> <li>A father telling his kids about the funny pranks he did with his brother during his childhood days.</li> <li>A professor starting the first day of college by telling a funny story that happened during his college days.</li> <li>A speaker starting his address with a funny incident that happened to him.</li> </ul> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="441" src="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-5.png" alt="Cautionary anecdote" class="wp-image-5984" srcset="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-5.png 800w, https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-5-300x165.png 300w, https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/what-is-an-anecdote-5-768x423.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cautionary anecdote</figcaption></figure></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="cautionary-anecdotes"></span><strong>Cautionary anecdotes</strong><span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h3> <p>Anecdotes are always <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/conciseness/">concise</a> and focused. This makes the perfect tool for imparting an important lesson or message to the readers. Such “cautionary tales” often feature irresponsible or flawed individuals who suffer punishment or unfavorable outcomes by doing the wrong thing. </p> <p>Religious parables, fairy tales, and historical myths all use cautionary anecdotes to inspire people to act morally by illustrating the consequences of doing otherwise.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Some examples include:</h4> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>The story of Narcissus in Greek mythology is a cautionary tale for people not to <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/are-seasons-capitalized/">fall</a> into the clutches of vanity.</li> <li>The fairy tale “Little Red Riding Hood” is a cautionary tale warning kids about the dangers of talking to strangers.</li> <li>Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” is a cautionary tale against power, greed, and mayhem.</li> <li>Before giving a presentation on alcohol addiction, a speaker can start with a story that details the <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/bad-vs-badly/">bad</a> effects alcohol had on the lives of someone like himself.</li> </ul> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="characterizing-anecdotes"></span><strong>Characterizing anecdotes</strong><span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h3> <p>Anecdotes are frequently employed in literature to give characters more depth by highlighting aspects of their personalities or prior experiences that don’t directly relate to the central story. </p> <p>This strategy is also applied in real life, frequently with historical figures and celebrities to emphasize specific qualities or traits.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Some of these anecdote examples include:</strong></h4> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Everybody is familiar with the story of Alexander and his encounter with the famous Gordion Knot. It was said that <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/whoever-vs-whomever/">whoever</a> could untie this knot would control Asia. For many ages, kings and princes flocked to Phrygian Gordion in an effort to untangle this intricate knot, but all of them failed. When Alexander <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/past-tense-of-hear/">heard</a> about the knot, he <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/past-tense-of-ride/">rode</a> to Phrygian Gordium, pulled out his sword, and cut the knot. There <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/where-vs-were/">were</a> no instructions on how to unravel the knot. This meant that Alexander did nothing wrong by cutting it rather than untying it. This anecdote demonstrates the way Alexander approaches a problem and his capability to <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/past-tense-of-think/">think</a> outside the box. These qualities were what made him a great conqueror in the future.</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="how-to-write-good-anecdotes"></span>How to write good anecdotes<span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h2> <p>Writing anecdotes isn’t difficult. Anecdotes can be used in a myriad of forms of writing, including general fiction and non-fiction works, speeches, essays, and even school or college works. </p> <p>Using anecdotes while writing improves the writer’s skills and makes the text engaging. There are some tips writers can <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/used-to/">use to</a> craft excellent anecdotes. </p> <p>These include:</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="have-a-clear-objective-or-purpose-in-mind"></span><strong>Have a clear objective or purpose in mind</strong><span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h3> <p>Many writers think that, <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/despite-vs-in-spite-of/">despite</a> having <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/less-vs-fewer/">fewer</a> words, crafting anecdotes takes more effort and time. Sometimes the writers may need to express their thoughts in a limited number of words. All these can make using anecdotes a <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/past-tense-of-bite/">bit</a> difficult. </p> <p>The first step to crafting a good anecdote is to define the purpose or intention of the text, <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/weather-whether-wether/">whether</a> it is to make the reader laugh or to give some serious <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/advise-vs-advice/">advice</a>. </p> <p>After this <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/subjective-vs-objective/">objective</a> is clear, writers can design their anecdotes around it.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="begin-with-the-action"></span><strong>Begin with the action</strong><span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h3> <p>Essays usually begin with an introduction that gives the reader an idea about the topic that is about to be discussed in detail. But writers can forgo this by using anecdotes and jumping directly into the story. </p> <p>When <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/compared-to-or-compared-with/">compared to</a> boring introductory paragraphs, using quirky anecdotes, in the beginning, can easily hold the attention of the readers. </p> <p>Many famous fiction writers, like Malcolm Gladwell, use this technique to capture the attention of readers.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="create-a-short-anecdote"></span><strong>Create a short anecdote</strong><span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h3> <p>An anecdote is brief, so it is important to stay true to its purpose and not include unnecessary details. Rereading the writing while viewing it from the perspective of another person can help writers identify unnecessary details in the text. </p> <p>The target audience must always be taken into account. For example, while employing scientific terminology, writers should be prepared for the possibility that some listeners won’t comprehend what they’re saying. </p> <p>It’s best to <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/choose-vs-chose/">choose</a> the alternative collocation <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/is-because-a-conjunction/">because</a> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/farther-vs-further/">further</a> explanation will just make things worse.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="include-a-clear-conclusion"></span><strong>Include a clear conclusion</strong><span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h3> <p>The writers should make sure that the readers will be able to tell when the anecdote is ending. Writers can use terms like “and that’s what happened” to indicate the end of anecdotes. The ending of anecdotes is heavily dependent on the message they put forth.</p> <div class="wp-block-coblocks-faq" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/FAQPage"> <h2 class="wp-block-coblocks-faq__title wp-block-heading"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="faqs"></span>FAQs<span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h2> <details class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item" itemprop="mainEntity" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/Question"><summary class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__question" itemprop="name"><div class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__question__content"><strong>What is the difference between an anecdote and a short story?</strong></div><svg fill="none" viewBox="0 0 24 24" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="24" height="24" class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__question__icon" aria-hidden="true"><path fill="currentColor" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M19.39 14.99l-1.41 1.41L12 10.43 6.02 16.4l-1.41-1.41L12 7.6l7.39 7.39z"></path></svg></summary><div class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__answer" itemprop="acceptedAnswer" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/Answer"><div itemprop="text"> <p><a href="https://www.grammarly.com/blog/anecdote/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anecdotes</a> are typically one or two paragraphs long at most. Stories are much longer than anecdotes. When writers create stories, they have far more room for detail and put more work into making the readers feel immersed in the narrative.</p> </div></div></details> <details class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item" itemprop="mainEntity" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/Question"><summary class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__question" itemprop="name"><div class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__question__content"><strong>What are the things a writer can include in anecdotes?</strong></div><svg fill="none" viewBox="0 0 24 24" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="24" height="24" class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__question__icon" aria-hidden="true"><path fill="currentColor" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M19.39 14.99l-1.41 1.41L12 10.43 6.02 16.4l-1.41-1.41L12 7.6l7.39 7.39z"></path></svg></summary><div class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__answer" itemprop="acceptedAnswer" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/Answer"><div itemprop="text"> <p>Anecdotes, as they are meant to be brief, typically center on a single main character, with very little information about supporting characters. </p> <p>The narratives are also similarly kept simple by typically concentrating on just one conflict or subject. </p> <p>Anecdotes rely heavily on rhetoric to create the desired mood. Experienced writers who use anecdotes focus on the language they use to <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/ensure-vs-insure/">ensure</a> it reflects the tone they are striving for.</p> </div></div></details> <details class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item" itemprop="mainEntity" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/Question"><summary class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__question" itemprop="name"><div class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__question__content"><strong>How are anecdotes structured?</strong></div><svg fill="none" viewBox="0 0 24 24" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="24" height="24" class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__question__icon" aria-hidden="true"><path fill="currentColor" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M19.39 14.99l-1.41 1.41L12 10.43 6.02 16.4l-1.41-1.41L12 7.6l7.39 7.39z"></path></svg></summary><div class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__answer" itemprop="acceptedAnswer" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/Answer"><div itemprop="text"> <p>Anecdotes typically have a start, middle, and conclusion, like any other form of narrative. The characters and overarching ideas are introduced at the start, the conflict or action of the narrative is presented in the middle, and everything is resolved at the conclusion. </p> <p>The structure of anecdotes is similar to that of stories, but everything is considerably shorter. </p> <p>Anecdotes are by nature brief and straightforward; <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/how-to-use-therefore-correctly/">therefore</a>, they typically follow a more rapid pace with fewer specifics.</p> </div></div></details> <details class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item" itemprop="mainEntity" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/Question"><summary class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__question" itemprop="name"><div class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__question__content">What’s the difference between a short narrative or brief tale?</div><svg fill="none" viewBox="0 0 24 24" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="24" height="24" class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__question__icon" aria-hidden="true"><path fill="currentColor" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M19.39 14.99l-1.41 1.41L12 10.43 6.02 16.4l-1.41-1.41L12 7.6l7.39 7.39z"></path></svg></summary><div class="wp-block-coblocks-faq-item__answer" itemprop="acceptedAnswer" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/Answer"><div itemprop="text"> <p>Both types are considered short stories. When referring to short stories, they are the same as a brief tale or short narrative.</p> </div></div></details> </div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="sources"></span>Sources:<span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h2> <ol class="wp-block-list"> <li><a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anecdote" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Merriam Webster – anecdote – Definition</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anecdote" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wikipedia – Anecdote</a></li> <li><a href="https://literaryterms.net/anecdote/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Literary Terms – Anecdote</a></li> <li><a href="https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/anecdote" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cambridge Dictionary – anecdote</a></li> </ol> <div id="ez-toc-container" class="ez-toc-v2_0_69_1 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction"> <div class="ez-toc-title-container"> <p class="ez-toc-title" style="cursor:inherit">Inside this article</p> <span class="ez-toc-title-toggle"></span></div> <nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1" href="#what-is-an-anecdote" title="What is an anecdote?">What is an anecdote?</a></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2" href="#purpose-of-an-anecdote" title="Purpose of an anecdote">Purpose of an anecdote</a></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3" href="#anecdotes-the-different-types" title="Anecdotes The different types">Anecdotes The different types</a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4" href="#inspirational-or-motivational-anecdotes" title="Inspirational or motivational anecdotes">Inspirational or motivational anecdotes</a></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5" href="#reminiscent-anecdotes" title="Reminiscent anecdotes">Reminiscent anecdotes</a></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6" href="#humorous-anecdotes" title="Humorous anecdotes">Humorous anecdotes</a></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7" href="#cautionary-anecdotes" title="Cautionary anecdotes">Cautionary anecdotes</a></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8" href="#characterizing-anecdotes" title="Characterizing anecdotes">Characterizing anecdotes</a></li></ul></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9" href="#how-to-write-good-anecdotes" title="How to write good anecdotes">How to write good anecdotes</a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10" href="#have-a-clear-objective-or-purpose-in-mind" title="Have a clear objective or purpose in mind">Have a clear objective or purpose in mind</a></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11" href="#begin-with-the-action" title="Begin with the action">Begin with the action</a></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12" href="#create-a-short-anecdote" title="Create a short anecdote">Create a short anecdote</a></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13" href="#include-a-clear-conclusion" title="Include a clear conclusion">Include a clear conclusion</a></li></ul></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14" href="#faqs" title="FAQs">FAQs</a></li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15" href="#sources" title="Sources">Sources</a></li></ul></nav></div> </div> <div bind="a45688e5-b9eb-987e-b87a-877b363b714a" class="tags w-clearfix"> <div bind="3c46d1e8-cfca-93f8-1f0b-132651db81b5"><span bind="e3af2ae6-d86a-f810-ba70-8a062949eb9d" class="text-span-3">Tags:</span></div> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/tag/sentences/" class="bold-text-4"><strong bind="9bd9671a-c4c5-f296-a149-d2e552ddbe4f" class="bold-text-5">Sentences</strong></a> </div>  <div class="fact-checked w-clearfix"><img src="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/themes/grammarbrain/images/correct.png" loading="lazy" width="35" srcset="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/themes/grammarbrain/images/correct-p-500.png 500w, https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/themes/grammarbrain/images/correct.png 512w" sizes="(max-width: 479px) 27vw, 35px" alt="" class="image-6" style="margin-right:20px;"> <p bind="a6b1dcf4-d86a-ecf2-05e3-b91db5a16e6e" class="fact"><strong bind="a6b1dcf4-d86a-ecf2-05e3-b91db5a16e6f">Fact checked:</strong><br>Content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. <a href="/editorial-policy/" bind="a6b1dcf4-d86a-ecf2-05e3-b91db5a16e73"><strong bind="a6b1dcf4-d86a-ecf2-05e3-b91db5a16e74">Learn more.</strong></a> </p> </div>   <div bind="a6b1dcf4-d86a-ecf2-05e3-b91db5a16e64" class="author"> <div bind="a6b1dcf4-d86a-ecf2-05e3-b91db5a16e65" class="author-image w-row"> <div bind="a6b1dcf4-d86a-ecf2-05e3-b91db5a16e66" class="column-3 w-col w-col-3"><img src="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/themes/grammarbrain/images/Screen-Shot-2022-09-10-at-4.07.48-PM.png" loading="lazy" bind="a6b1dcf4-d86a-ecf2-05e3-b91db5a16e67" alt="" class="image-3" style="-webkit-border-radius:200px;border-radius:200px;-moz-border-radius:200px;"></div> <div bind="a6b1dcf4-d86a-ecf2-05e3-b91db5a16e68" class="column-2 w-col w-col-9"> <p bind="3eab4726-5f41-ff61-2881-dd7370ae1a47" class="author-p"><strong>About the author</strong> <a href="#" bind="3eab4726-5f41-ff61-2881-dd7370ae1a4c"><strong bind="3eab4726-5f41-ff61-2881-dd7370ae1a4d"></strong></a> </p> <p bind="3eab4726-5f41-ff61-2881-dd7370ae1a47" class="author-p"> <a href="/about/" bind="a4a5a123-eef4-a277-5d08-7dfd48482052"><strong bind="16ba8aa2-6a9a-8a55-c24f-7e0b2e7391c4">Dalia Y.:</strong></a> Dalia is an English Major and linguistics expert with an additional degree in Psychology. Dalia has featured articles on Forbes, Inc, Fast Company, Grammarly, and many more. She covers English, ESL, and all things grammar on GrammarBrain. </p> </div> </div> </div>  <div class="other-articles"> <h3 class="abbv-h3">Core lessons</h3> <div class="w-row"> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/apostrophe/">Apostrophe</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/ellipsis/">Ellipsis</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/semicolon/">Semicolon</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/hyphen/">Hyphen</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/et-al/">Et. Al.</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/exclamation-mark/">Exclamation Mark</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/capitalization-rules/">Capitalization Rules</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/oxford-comma-serial-comma/">Comma</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/parts-of-speech/">Parts of Speech</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/subjunctive/">Subjunctive</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/adjectives/">Adjectives</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/adjectives-describing-personality/">Personality Adjectives</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/compound-words/">Compound Words</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/subordinating-conjunction/">Subordinating Conjunction</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/adverbs/">Adverbs</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/adverbial-clause/">Adverbial Clause</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/irregular-verbs/">Irregular Verbs</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/common-verbs/">Common Verbs</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/intransitive-verbs/">Intransitive Verbs</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/phrasal-verbs/">Phrasal Verbs</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/prepositions/">Prepositions</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/gerund/">Gerund</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/active-voice/">Active Voice</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/passive-voice/">Passive Voice</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/conjunctions/">Conjunctions</a> </div>  <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/present-perfect-tense/">Present Perfect</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/present-perfect-simple/">Present Perfect Simple</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/present-simple-tense/">Present Simple</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/present-continuous/">Present Continuous</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/present-perfect-continuous/">Present Perfect Continuous</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/simple-future-tense/">Simple Future</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/past-continuous-tense/">Past Continuous</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/past-simple-tense/">Past Simple</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/clauses/">Clauses</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/object-pronouns/">Object Pronouns</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/personal-pronouns/">Personal Pronouns</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/possessive-pronouns/">Possessive Pronouns</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/common-noun/">Common Noun</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/concrete-nouns/">Concrete Noun</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/possessive-noun/">Possessive Noun</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/proper-noun/">Proper Noun</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/irregular-plural-nouns/">Irregular Plural Nouns</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/prepositional-phrases/">Prepositional Phrases</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/introductory-phrases/">Introductory Phrases</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/declarative-statement/">Declarative Statement</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/sentence-diagramming/">Sentence Diagramming</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/complete-subjects/">Complete Subjects</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/sentence-starters/">Sentence Starters</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/metaphor/">Metaphor</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/personification/">Personification</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/allegory/">Allegory</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/collective-noun/">Collective Nouns</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/tones-in-writing/">Tones in Writing</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/homophones/">Homophones</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/declarative-sentences/">Declarative Sentences</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/syntax/">Syntax</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="other-articles"> <h3 class="abbv-h3">Glossary</h3> <div class="w-row"> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <strong>A:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/abstract-noun/">Abstract Noun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/accusative-case/">Accusative Case</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/anecdote/">Anecdote</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/antonym/">Antonym</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/active-sentence/">Active Sentence</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/adverbs/">Adverb</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/adjective/">Adjective</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/allegory/">Allegory</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/alliteration/">Alliteration</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/adjective-clause/">Adjective Clause</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/adjective-phrase/">Adjective Phrase</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/ampersand/">Ampersand</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/anastrophe/">Anastrophe</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/adverbial-clause/">Adverbial Clause</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/appositive-phrase/">Appositive Phrase</a></li> </ul> <strong>B:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/base-form/">Base Form</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/body-paragraph/">Body Paragraph</a></li> </ul> <strong>C:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/clauses/">Clause</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/compound-adjective/">Compound Adjective</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/complex-sentence/">Complex Sentence</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/compound-words/">Compound Words</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/compound-predicate/">Compound Predicate</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/common-noun/">Common Noun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/comparative-adjective/">Comparative Adjective</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/superlatives-and-comparatives/">Comparative and Superlative</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/compound-noun/">Compound Noun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/compound-subject/">Compound Subject</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/compound-sentence/">Compound Sentence</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/copular-verb/">Copular Verb</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/collective-noun/">Collective Noun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/colloquialism/">Colloquialism</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/conciseness/">Conciseness</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/consonance/">Consonance</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/conditionals/">Conditional</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/concrete-nouns/">Concrete Noun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/conjunctions/">Conjunction</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/conjugation/">Conjugation</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/conditional-sentence-if-clause/">Conditional Sentence</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/comma-splice/">Comma Splice</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/correlative-conjunction/">Correlative Conjunction</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/coordinating-conjunction/">Coordinating Conjunction</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/coordinating-adjectives/">Coordinate Adjective</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/cumulative-adjective/">Cumulative Adjective</a></li> </ul> <strong>D:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/dative-case/">Dative Case</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/determiners/">Determiner</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/declarative-sentences/">Declarative Sentence</a> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/declarative-statement/">Declarative Statement</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/direct-object-pronouns/">Direct Object Pronoun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/direct-object/">Direct Object</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/types-of-diction/">Diction</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/diphthong/">Diphthong</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/dangling-modifier/">Dangling Modifier</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/demonstrative-pronouns/">Demonstrative Pronoun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/demonstrative-adjective/">Demonstrative Adjective</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/direct-characterization/">Direct Characterization</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/definite-article/">Definite Article</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/doublespeak/">Doublespeak</a></li> </ul> <strong>E:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/equivocation-fallacy/">Equivocation Fallacy</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/en-dash/">En Dash</a></li> </ul> <strong>F:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/false-dilemma-fallacy/">False Dilemma Fallacy</a> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/future-perfect-progressive/">Future Perfect Progressive</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/future-simple/">Future Simple</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/future-perfect-continuous/">Future Perfect Continuous</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/future-perfect/">Future Perfect</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/first-conditional/">First Conditional</a></li> </ul> <strong>G:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/gerund/">Gerund</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/gerund-phrase/">Gerund Phrase</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/genitive-case/">Genitive Case</a></li> </ul> <strong>H:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/homophones/">Homophone</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/homonym/">Homonym</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/helping-verbs/">Helping Verb</a></li> </ul> <strong>I:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/irregular-adjectives/">Irregular Adjective</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/irregular-verbs/">Irregular Verb</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/imperative-sentence/">Imperative Sentence</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/indefinite-article/">Indefinite Article</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/intransitive-verbs/">Intransitive Verb</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/introductory-phrases/">Introductory Phrase</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/indefinite-pronouns/">Indefinite Pronoun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/indirect-characterization/">Indirect Characterization</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/interrogative-sentence/">Interrogative Sentence</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/intensive-pronoun/">Intensive Pronoun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/inanimate-object/">Inanimate Object</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/indefinite-tense/">Indefinite Tense</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/infinitive-phrase/">Infinitive Phrase</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/interjection/">Interjection</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/intensifier/">Intensifier</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/inifitives/">Infinitive</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/indicative-mood/">Indicative Mood</a></li> </ul> <strong>J:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/juxtaposition/">Juxtaposition</a></li> </ul> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <strong>L:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/linking-verbs/">Linking Verb</a></li> </ul> <strong>M:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/modal-verb/">Modal Verb</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/modifier/">Modifier</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/misplaced-modifier/">Misplaced Modifier</a></li> </ul> <strong>N:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/nominative-case/">Nominative Case</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/noun/">Noun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/adjective-as-noun/">Noun Adjective</a></li> </ul> <strong>O:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/oxymoron/">Oxymoron</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/object-pronouns/">Object Pronoun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/object-complement/">Object Complement</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/order-of-adjectives/">Order of Adjectives</a></li> </ul> <strong>P:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/participle/">Participle</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/parallelism/">Parallelism</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/prepositional-phrases/">Prepositional Phrase</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/past-simple-tense/">Past Simple Tense</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/past-continuous-tense/">Past Continuous Tense</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/past-perfect-tense/">Past Perfect Tense</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/past-progressive-tense/">Past Progressive Tense</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/present-simple-tense/">Present Simple Tense</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/present-perfect-tense/">Present Perfect Tense</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/personal-pronouns/">Personal Pronoun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/personification/">Personification</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/persuasive-writing/">Persuasive Writing</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/parallel-structure/">Parallel Structure</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/phrasal-verbs/">Phrasal Verb</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/predicate-adjective/">Predicate Adjective</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/predicate-nominative/">Predicate Nominative</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/phonetic-language/">Phonetic Language</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/plural-noun/">Plural Noun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/punctuation/">Punctuation</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/punctuation-marks/">Punctuation Marks</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/prepositions/">Preposition</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/preposition-of-place/">Preposition of Place</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/parts-of-speech/">Parts of Speech</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/possessive-adjective/">Possessive Adjective</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/possessive-determiner/">Possessive Determiner</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/possessive-case/">Possessive Case</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/possessive-noun/">Possessive Noun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/proper-adjective/">Proper Adjective</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/proper-noun/">Proper Noun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/present-participle/">Present Participle</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/prefix/">Prefix</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/predicate/">Predicate</a></li> </ul> <strong>Q:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/quotation-marks/">Quotation Marks</a></li> </ul> <strong>R:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/relative-pronouns/">Relative Pronoun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/reflexive-pronouns/">Reflexive Pronoun</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/reciprocal-pronouns/">Reciprocal Pronoun</a></li> </ul> <strong>S:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/subordinating-conjunction/">Subordinating Conjunction</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/simple-future-tense/">Simple Future Tense</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/syntax/">Syntax</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/stative-verbs/">Stative Verb</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/subjunctive/">Subjunctive</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/subject-complement/">Subject Complement</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/subject-of-a-sentence/">Subject of a Sentence</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/sentence-variety/">Sentence Variety</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/second-conditional/">Second Conditional</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/suffix/">Suffix</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/superlative-adjective/">Superlative Adjective</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/slash-symbol/">Slash Symbol</a></li> </ul> <strong>T:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/topic-sentence/">Topic Sentence</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/types-of-nouns/">Types of Nouns</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/types-of-sentences/">Types of Sentences</a></li> </ul> <strong>U:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/uncountable-noun/">Uncountable Noun</a></li> </ul> <strong>V:</strong> <ul> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/common-verbs/">Verb</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/verb-tenses/">Verb Tense</a></li> <li><a href="https://grammarbrain.com/vowels-and-consonants/">Vowels and Consonants</a></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> <div class="other-articles"> <h3 class="abbv-h3">Popular lessons</h3> <div class="w-row"> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/bare-with-me-or-bear-with-me/">Bare With Me</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/bosss-bosses-bosses/">Boss's, Bosses, or Bosses'</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/full-proof-or-foolproof/">Full Proof or Foolproof</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/is-or-are/">Is or Are</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/led-vs-lead/">Led or Lead</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/are-seasons-capitalized/">Are Seasons Capitalized</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/a-part-or-apart/">A Part vs. Apart</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/to-easy-or-too-easy/">Too Easy or To Easy</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/comma-before-or/">Comma Before "Or"</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/past-tenses/">Past Tenses</a> </div> </div> <div class="w-row"> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/payed-vs-paid/">Payed vs. Paid</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/lets-or-lets/">Let's or Lets</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/ok-vs-okay/">OK or Okay</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/plural-of-moose/">Plural of Moose</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/which-vs-that/">Which vs. That</a> </div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <a href="https://grammarbrain.com/less-vs-fewer/">Less vs. Fewer</a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="newsletter-signup"> <div class="super-big-wrap"> <div class="w-row"> <div class="w-col w-col-6"><img src="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/themes/grammarbrain/images/SquareOverride-604x592.png" loading="lazy" width="285" srcset="https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/themes/grammarbrain/images/SquareOverride-604x592-p-500.png 500w, https://grammarbrain.com/wp-content/themes/grammarbrain/images/SquareOverride-604x592.png 604w" sizes="(max-width: 479px) 92vw, 285px" alt="" class="image-8"></div> <div class="w-col w-col-6"> <h2 class="heading-6 newsletter-h1">Stay awhile. 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