Common English Mistakes in Investigative Reports by Mandarin Chinese Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Mandarin Chinese speakers from Taiwan when writing a Investigative Report in English.

Mistake Example #1

Using overly formal or direct language

In tThe recent investigation regardingtheo pollution levels in the Tamsui River, it ihas imprerativetoaled statome that thgefnuindings are extremely aladisturmbingresults. The water quality has deteriorated to adegree that isn unacceptable degree, and immediate action is rnequireded to rectfifyx the situatipronblem. The government muist take responsible for steppilngityn and implementstrakingeactiont measures to protenct people'sure the health and safetyof the citizens are not compromised.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to sound more native and natural."

The recent investigation into pollution levels in the Tamsui River has revealed some genuinely disturbing results. The water quality has deteriorated to an unacceptable degree, and immediate action is needed to fix the problem. The government is responsible for stepping in and taking action to protect people's health and safety.

In the recent investigation regarding the pollution levels in the Tamsui River, it is imperative to state that the findings are extremely alarming. The water quality has deteriorated to a degree that is unacceptable, and immediate action is required to rectify the situation. The government must take responsibility and implement stringent measures to ensure the health and safety of the citizens are not compromised.

Mistake Example #2

Misuse of singular/plural nouns ('There are much people here' instead of 'There are many people here')

Ina recent investigation about the local wildlife conservation efforts, there isare many challenges that have been identified. The report highlights that there isare muchany species facing threats due to habitat loss and pollution. Despite the efforts, there areis still much work needed to ensure the survival of these animals in Taiwan.

Text corrected by:
Miss E., Cyprus, Europe

"This is fairly well-written - just be mindful of errors such as the following: "In recent investigation" should be "In a recent investigation" and "there is many challenges" should be "there are many challenges"."

In a recent investigation about the local wildlife conservation efforts, there are many challenges that have been identified. The report highlights that there are many species facing threats due to habitat loss and pollution. Despite the efforts, there is still much work needed to ensure the survival of these animals in Taiwan.

In recent investigation about the local wildlife conservation efforts, there is many challenges that have been identified. The report highlights that there is much species facing threats due to habitat loss and pollution. Despite the efforts, there are still much work needed to ensure the survival of these animals in Taiwan.

Mistake Example #3

Omitting the subject in sentences ('Is important to learn English' instead of 'It is important to learn English')

In recenta investigation,it was discovered that pollution levels in Taipei have increased significantly over the past year. It is concerning because air quality affects health of residents, especially children and theelderly. AThe authorities need to implement stricter regulations to control theemissions from factories and vehicles.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"Good work! I just made some small changes, including adding the subject "it" where it's needed."

In recent a investigation, it was discovered that pollution levels in Taipei have increased significantly over the past year. It is concerning because air quality affects health of residents, especially children and the elderly. The authorities need to implement stricter regulations to control the emissions from factories and vehicles.

In recent investigation, discovered that pollution levels in Taipei have increased significantly over the past year. Is concerning because air quality affects health of residents, especially children and elderly. Authorities need to implement stricter regulations to control emissions from factories and vehicles.