Would you consider this an error?

Some grammar rules (and embarrassing mistakes!) transcend the uniqueness of different regions and style guides. This new International Grammar section by OnlineBookClub.org ultimately identifies those rules thus providing a simple, flexible rule-set, respecting the differences between regions and style guides. You can feel free to ask general questions about spelling and grammar. You can also provide example sentences for other members to proofread and inform you of any grammar mistakes.

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Sara Rispo
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Would you consider this an error?

Post by Sara Rispo »

Good evening!

I'd like to ask for an opinion.

Would you consider direct speeches missing the opening or closing double quotation marks as an error that needs to be reported?

For example: “I’ll see what I can do,” she said. She looked at his chart on her device. (Missing double quotation marks) My guess is that you have about another week before you will be well enough to be discharged. I expect Commissioner Davenport in a couple of days. You realize the only reason you are in this facility is because she put in a request.”

I consider this an error. What do you think?
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Claudia Angelucci
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Post by Claudia Angelucci »

Yes, I consider that a mistake as well, Sara.
Might I ask, just out of interest, why you are asking that? Is it related to a review that you wrote?
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Sara Rispo
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Post by Sara Rispo »

Yes, it's related to my last review. I'm waiting for the editor scorecard. However, I have been asked to provide more detailed notes regarding the list of errors I previously submitted. The editor informed me that some of the errors I listed were not considered actual errors. Specifically, I mentioned seven instances where direct speech was missing opening or closing double quotation marks, as well as other grammar errors. I wanted to understand if I'm the only one considering these actual errors.
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Shirley Ann Riddern Labzentis
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Post by Shirley Ann Riddern Labzentis »

Leaving out quotation marks is definetly an error. If the editor rules that it is not an error, I would then ask for a re-check and have a moderator step in.
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Post by The Keeper Jr »

I would also count those as errors. I actually came up with missing quotation marks once and noted it on my errors list as well. The author also accepted the error. So it's an obvious error and I hope your review doesn't get rejected for that.
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Sara Rispo
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Post by Sara Rispo »

Thank you for your answers! I'll let you know.
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mazen2008
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Post by mazen2008 »

The quotations are certainly essential for the direct speech.
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Rakesh+12345
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Post by Rakesh+12345 »

Certainly The quotation are required for the direct speech.
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