Apparently there is a new reason to pay attention in class.
The Wall Street Journal reports that people are evaluating potential dates on the basis of the grammar and spelling in their online profiles or messages. One guy, for example, had second thoughts when his new date sent a text that she was “almost their.”
In a politically correct world where we are no longer allowed to be condescending about race, gender, class or practically anything else, it’s nice to know you can still be stuck up about something. Semicolons, for example.
One study reported in the Journal found that 88% of women and 75% of men found grammar to be the second most important things to them, behind only personal hygiene and slightly ahead of good teeth. No word on whether or not integrity made the list. One reason for this grander grammar trend, however, may be related: people who take more care in writing their online dating profile are perceived to have a better work ethic.
I can imagine the new lesson plans in high school English: “how to rate great on a date. ” Judging from college freshman papers I’ve seen the learn-to-write-so-you-can-get-a-job shtick has not been effective anyway. Or is it “anyways.” Let’s try anyways. (Nope, can’t be that, judging from the squiggly little line below it.)
Anyway, there is no cause for alarm. The enterprising folks over at e-Flirt will rewrite your profile for you, if you are a grammar slob. beware, it comes as part of an expensive expansive suite of “concierge services.” Whenever someone says “concierge” you should keep a hand over your wallet.
And, if you are grammar snob, there is now an app for that. The Grade will assign a letter grade to those who use the app to find a date, the grade based on their profile, responsiveness and “message quality.”
There is no research yet on the Oxford comma, by the way. But let’s just say I’m glad I am already married.
the daysman 
Oh, my! I guess I have an unmarriageable daughter. No matter how I push it, grammar doesn’t stick with her. I, on the other hand, love me a good semicolon.
Love this! I would like to reblog it at maidsdayoff.wordpress.com.
Reblogged this on Maid's Day Off and commented:
Welcome to this week’s Write Right Monday Night.
Finally! Proof that bad grammar is more than just a pet peeve of mine. Now there’s proof that it may have an impact on your love life as well. Read Wally Metts’ take on the study at his blog The Daysman.
Thanks! It was fun to write.
Thank you for this. It is a good thing, internet or online dating is not a norm here so I am able to marry lol 🙂