Common English Mistakes in Grant Proposals by Mandarin Chinese Speakers

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

Mistake Example #1

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

The proposed project aims to develop innovative solar panel technology that can significantly increase energy efficiency. It is crucial to address the growing energy demands in Taiwan and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. By investing in this research, itwill contribute to sustainable development and environmental protection.

Text corrected by:
Miss E., Cyprus, Europe

"This is mostly well-written; however, you omitted the subject "it" in parts of the content ("Is crucial"/"will contribute"). I've made a few changes accordingly."

The proposed project aims to develop innovative solar panel technology that can significantly increase energy efficiency. It is crucial to address the growing energy demands in Taiwan and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. By investing in this research, it will contribute to sustainable development and environmental protection.

The proposed project aims to develop innovative solar panel technology that can significantly increase energy efficiency. Is crucial to address the growing energy demands in Taiwan and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. By investing in this research, will contribute to sustainable development and environmental protection.

Mistake Example #2

Using overly formal or direct language

The purpose of this grant proposal is to request financial support for our research project, which aims to—developing innovative solar energy solutions. We are confident that our project will contributesignificantlycontribute to the advancement of renewable energy technology, and we sincerely hoappreciate youwillr consideration of our proposal. witThe sutmpposrt sof a rerinouswness. Your esteemed organization is highly respected in the field, and we belikeve that yoursupport will be invaluable to our success.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

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

The purpose of this grant proposal is to request financial support for our research project—developing innovative solar energy solutions. We are confident that our project will significantly contribute to the advancement of renewable energy technology, and we sincerely appreciate your consideration of our proposal. The support of a renowned organization like yours will be invaluable to our success.

The purpose of this grant proposal is to request financial support for our research project, which aims to develop innovative solar energy solutions. We are confident that our project will contribute significantly to the advancement of renewable energy technology, and we sincerely hope you will consider our proposal with utmost seriousness. Your esteemed organization is highly respected in the field, and we believe that your support will be invaluable to our success.

Mistake Example #3

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

Our research team proposed a new project to study the effects of climate change on local agriculture in Taiwan. There is manyuch evidence suggesting that rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns are impacting crop yields. We aim to collect data from various regions and analyze how these changes affect different types of crops.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking for proper usage of singular vs. plural nouns."

Our research team proposed a new project to study the effects of climate change on local agriculture in Taiwan. There is much evidence suggesting that rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns are impacting crop yields. We aim to collect data from various regions and analyze how these changes affect different types of crops.

Our research team propose a new project to study the effect of climate change on local agriculture in Taiwan. There is many evidence suggesting that rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns are impacting crop yields. We aim to collect data from various region and analyze how these changes affect different type of crops.