Common English Mistakes in E-Learning Modules by Cantonese Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Cantonese speakers from Hong Kong when writing a E-learning Module in English.

Mistake Example #1

Overuse of direct translations from Cantonese

Welcome to this e-learning module about how to use English in daily life. Today, we will talk about how to make a goodconversation with others. When you meet a friend, you can say, "Have you eaten riceyet?" This is a common way to show care in Hong Kong. Also, remember notto add "lah" at the end of sentences, to makes itdoes not sound more friendly, like "See you later, lah!".

Text corrected by:
Vince, United States

"This was well-written – I just made a few minor changes to make it sound a bit more natural :)"

Welcome to this e-learning module about how to use English in daily life. Today, we will talk about how to make conversation with others. When you meet a friend, you can say, "Have you eaten yet?" This is a common way to show care in Hong Kong. Also, remember not to add "lah" at the end of sentences, as it does not sound more friendly.

Welcome to this e-learning module about how to use English in daily life. Today, we will talk about how to make a good conversation with others. When you meet a friend, you can say, "Have you eaten rice yet?" This is a common way to show care in Hong Kong. Also, remember to add "lah" at the end of sentences to make it more friendly, like "See you later, lah!"

Mistake Example #2

Overuse of 'very' to emphasize adjectives

Welcome to thisvery exciting e-learning module on English grammar! In this module, you will learn some veryimportant rules that willo help you writevery well in English. It is verPay caressentiafulto pay attention to the examples, as they are very useful for understanding how to use grammar correctly.

Text corrected by:
Camille, Maryland, USA

"Watch out for overusing the word "very." I have left one instance in this passage. "

Welcome to this exciting e-learning module on English grammar! In this module, you will learn some important rules to help you write well in English. Pay careful attention to the examples, as they are very useful for understanding how to use grammar correctly.

Welcome to this very exciting e-learning module on English grammar! In this module, you will learn some very important rules that will help you write very well in English. It is very essential to pay attention to the examples, as they are very useful for understanding how to use grammar correctly.

Mistake Example #3

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

Welcome to the E-learning Module on English Grammar. In this lesson, we will discuss how to improve your writing skills. Many students have difficulty with using correct nouns. For example, some students say they have much friends, but it should be many friends. Understanding these differences can help you write more clearly. Let's practice with some exercises to make sure you have good understanding of these concepts.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"The text has some issues with articles."

Welcome to the E-learning Module on English Grammar. In this lesson, we will discuss how to improve your writing skills. Many students have difficulty with using correct nouns. For example, some students say they have much friends, but it should be many friends. Understanding these differences can help you write more clearly. Let's practice with some exercises to make sure you have good understanding of these concepts.

Welcome to the E-learning Module on English Grammar. In this lesson, we will discuss how to improve your writing skills. Many students have difficulty with using correct nouns. For example, some students say they have much friends, but it should be many friends. Understanding these differences can help you write more clearly. Let's practice with some exercises to make sure you have good understanding of these concepts.