Common English Mistakes in Educational Handouts by Cantonese Speakers

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

Mistake Example #1

Overuse of direct translations from Cantonese

Welcome to the English learning class. Today we will talk about how to use English in daily life. When you go out to eat, you can say, "I want to order food," instead of "I want to call food." Also, remember to say, "tTake a photo," instead of "tTake a picture." These small changes can help you sound more like anative speaker.

Text corrected by:
Vince, United States

"Just a few minor tweaks to the text :) Well done! "

Welcome to the English learning class. Today we will talk about how to use English in daily life. When you go out to eat, you can say, "I want to order food," instead of "I want to call food." Also, remember to say, "Take a photo," instead of "Take a picture." These small changes can help you sound more like a native speaker.

Welcome to the English learning class. Today we will talk about how to use English in daily life. When you go out to eat, you can say "I want to order food" instead of "I want to call food." Also, remember to say "take a photo" instead of "take a picture." These small changes can help you sound more like native speaker.

Mistake Example #2

Overuse of 'very' to emphasize adjectives

This handout is very important for your study because itcontainsvery useful information about the exam. It is veimporytanecessaryt to read each sectionvery carefully to understand the topics that will be covered. Make sure to pay very close attention to the examples, as they are very helpful in explaining the concepts.

Text corrected by:
Michele A., Boston, Massachusetts; United States

"I removed several instances of the adverb "very" and tightened up the sentences for improved readability."

This handout contains useful information about the exam. It is important to read each section carefully to understand the topics that will be covered. Make sure to pay close attention to the examples, as they are very helpful in explaining the concepts.

This handout is very important for your study because it contains very useful information about the exam. It is very necessary to read each section very carefully to understand the topics that will be covered. Make sure to pay very close attention to the examples, as they are very helpful in explaining the concepts.

Mistake Example #3

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

Welcome to the English Writing Workshop! In this session, we will focus on improving your vocabulary and grammar skills. Many students find difficulties withy learning new words, but with practice, you can gain much knowledge. Remember, practice is important, and you should spend time with your friends to discuss aboutwhat you learn. If you have any questions, feel free to ask your teacher for advices.

Text corrected by:
Miss E., Cyprus, Europe

"Just a few small changes were needed. Be mindful of your use of nouns: for example, "difficulties" should be "difficulty" and "advices" should be "advice"."

Welcome to the English Writing Workshop! In this session, we will focus on improving your vocabulary and grammar skills. Many students find difficulty learning new words, but with practice, you can gain much knowledge. Remember, practice is important, and you should spend time with your friends to discuss what you learn. If you have any questions, feel free to ask your teacher for advice.

Welcome to the English Writing Workshop! In this session, we will focus on improving your vocabulary and grammar skills. Many students find difficulties with learning new words, but with practice, you can gain much knowledge. Remember, practice is important, and you should spend time with your friends to discuss about what you learn. If you have any questions, feel free to ask your teacher for advices.