The word ‘grammar’ is often used as an overarching term for all things pertaining to the complexities of a language. However, if you had to ask a linguist if grammar includes spelling and capitalization, you might be confronted with a gasp of horror.
Grammar, spelling, and capitalization are technically separate components of language. As such, spelling and punctuation should not fall under the umbrella of grammar. Each component focuses on different aspects of written language, e.g., the rules, phonetics, and mechanics of that language.
Written and spoken language differ in that punctuation and spelling aren’t applicable in spoken language (unless you’re doing a spelling bee, of course). However, written language becomes more complex as it can be easily misinterpreted if you don’t adhere to the expectations of grammar, spelling, and capitalization.
Grammar Does Not Include Spelling Or Capitalization
So now we know that grammar, spelling, and capitalization are three separate components of a language. Let’s find out more to see how they differ, and why each is as important as the other.
What Does Grammar Include?
Grammar refers to the ‘rules’ or elements of a language, how they are combined, and how they could be interpreted. Often, a native speaker intuitively understands the nuances (grammar) of their language. The different areas that the term ‘grammar’ covers include the following:
- Phonology (sounds of letters, letter combinations, and words)
- Morphology (the system of how words are formed)
- Syntax (the various patterns of arranging words)
- Semantics (the meaning or interpretation)
Personally, I find it kind of curious that phonology is included as being part of grammar. I had always assumed that phonology was a part of pronunciation and that how we say words was not particularly linked to grammar, how wrong could I be.
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Why Isn’t Spelling A Part Of Grammar?
The way words are spelled has little bearing on the nuances of spoken English. However, when it comes to written text, spelling becomes more important for clearer communication.
For example, there are variations in spelling between American and British English, and each is correct within its own right and education system.
Spelling and grammar have a common connection in morphology. Decoding the elements of a word (roots, prefixes, suffixes, and etymology) can help a person with spelling.
Additionally, phonology is a part of spelling that linguists study as it will affect the semantics of a language.
Capitalization Is A Part Of Writing, Not Grammar
Finally, capitalization is not part of language – not even grammar. Capitalization falls under the banner of writing which is a mechanical aspect of conveying a message. These messages include printed and written text, word processing, shorthand, txting, literacy, and more.
Using capital letters, punctuation, and formatting intentionally will certainly improve the chances of your message being understood by your audience.
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Capital letters show that something is unique and should be noticed – like a person’s name or the beginning of a sentence. Highlighting these will improve the clarity of your message, along with grammar and spelling.
It is funny though, some people will just not accept any of the above explanations and will continue to include spelling as a part of grammar. Well, I guess it does not really matter what people think, the facts remain the same. People are of course free to choose which side of the fence they sit on.
Conclusion
Oftentimes people assume that grammar is an all-encompassing term for all things relating to a language. However, grammar is only one aspect of a language and is separate from other components such as spelling or capitalization.
When used intentionally, grammar, spelling, and capitalization will help a writer to convey their message as clearly as possible. Poor grammar, or spelling, for that matter can restrict the accuracy of the intended message which can of course lead to funny or serious consequences.
It is of course always best to be on the safe side and use a grammar checker, such as Grammarly, or ask a native speaking friend to double check it before pressing the send button.
Recommended reading: Does Grammar Matter Anymore?, and Why Is Grammar Hard?
