Common English Mistakes in Research Papers by Cantonese Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Cantonese speakers from Hong Kong when writing a Research Paper in English.

Mistake Example #1

Confusion with countable vs. uncountable nouns ('She has much friends')

Ina recent study conducted at the University of Hong Kong, it was found that there isa significant amount of data supporting the hypothesis. The research involved many participants who were asked to provide feedback on various environmental issues. Although there is much evidence to suggest that pollution levels are rising, there is still afew solutions being implemented to address the problem effectively.

Text corrected by:
Miss E., Cyprus, Europe

"This is mostly well-written. However, be mindful of errors such as the following: "In recent study" should be "In a recent study" and "many participant" should be "many participants"."

In a recent study conducted at the University of Hong Kong, it was found that there is a significant amount of data supporting the hypothesis. The research involved many participants who were asked to provide feedback on various environmental issues. Although there is much evidence to suggest that pollution levels are rising, there is still a few solutions being implemented to address the problem effectively.

In recent study conducted at the University of Hong Kong, it was found that there is significant amount of data supporting the hypothesis. The research involved many participant who were asked to provide feedback on various environmental issues. Although there is much evidence to suggest that pollution levels are rising, there is still few solution being implemented to address the problem effectively.

Mistake Example #2

Overuse of direct translations from Cantonese

In this research paper, we will discussabout the impact of social media on teenagers' mental health. Many people in Hong Kong believe that social media is a double-edged sword,. iIt can bring both positive and negative effects. According to the survey, teenagers spend too much time on social media, which makes them feel pa gressurat welike a mounghtain on their shoulders.

Text corrected by:
Vince, United States

"Just a few minor tweaks to polish the writing :) Nice work! "

In this research paper, we will discuss the impact of social media on teenagers' mental health. Many people in Hong Kong believe that social media is a double-edged sword. It can bring both positive and negative effects. According to the survey, teenagers spend too much time on social media, which makes them feel a great weight on their shoulders.

In this research paper, we will discuss about the impact of social media on teenagers' mental health. Many people in Hong Kong believe that social media is a double-edged sword, it can bring both positive and negative effects. According to the survey, teenagers spend too much time on social media, which makes them feel pressure like a mountain on their shoulders.

Mistake Example #3

Overuse of 'very' to emphasize adjectives

The study aims to explore thevery important factors influencing consumer behavior in Hong Kong. It is verycrucial to understand these dynamics to developvery effective marketing strategies. The research findings will provide very valuable insights that can bevery beneficial for businesses looking to expand in this verhighly competitive market.

Text corrected by:
Vince, United States

"Well done! Just a few small changes were made to reduce the use of the word "very." "

The study aims to explore the important factors influencing consumer behavior in Hong Kong. It is crucial to understand these dynamics to develop effective marketing strategies. The research findings will provide valuable insights that can be beneficial for businesses looking to expand in this highly competitive market.

The study aims to explore the very important factors influencing consumer behavior in Hong Kong. It is very crucial to understand these dynamics to develop very effective marketing strategies. The research findings will provide very valuable insights that can be very beneficial for businesses looking to expand in this very competitive market.