"I don't need a proofreader, much less a native-speaking proofreader"—are you sure about that? Evidence to the contrary would indicate we all need proofreaders, especially when writing in a language other than our native language—no matter how short your copy is.
What’s the best relationship name of all time? Boji—depending on how you look at it!
Playing with language can be fun. I make Dad jokes in Korean all the time. But when playing with a language that isn't your native language, do yourself a favor and consult with a native speaker to avoid mistakes like the ones in this post.
Free list of approved English signs Korean businesses can use to look professional
I post daily about awkward English signs in Korea. After doing this for 2 years, I've documented the most common mistakes I've found and shared the correct way to write these signs to help your business appear more professional.
Even more examples of common errors and awkward English found in Korea
Part II of a blog post highlighting the most common English copywriting errors found in Korea, often resulting from not using a native English proofreader—such as DC CopyPro. You can find details on DC CopyPro's free consulting service to help you avoid such errors in this blog post.
The most common errors and examples of awkward English found in Korea
After more than a year of posting daily examples of awkward English found mainly on Korean signs, clothing, and packaging, this blog post (part 1 of 2) highlights the most common English copywriting errors Koreans tend to make.
Is holding non-native speakers to a higher standard than native speakers unfair?
When native speakers make an error, it's usually labelled a typo or a simple mistake. But non-native speakers are not extended the same courtesy. Instead, it is assumed they were ignorant of the rules. Regardless of the reason, too many errors in your writing is never good.
How poor copy destroys trust and costs you customers—[with examples]
Error-free copy alone isn't enough to be effective. Neither is engaging copy full of typos. You need engaging, error-free copy to establish trust, keep people reading, and have them follow your call to action. I use English and Korean examples to demonstrate this point.
Certain your poor English won’t get your email flagged as spam? Guess again.
Getting people to open your emails is challenging. Once opened, the chances they'll click on your call to action (CTA) decrease with every red flag—from suspicious email addresses to poor grammar and punctuation.
How could an English proofreader in Korea have been so careless? I screwed up!
What happens when an English proofreader in Korea, who rails against people for not consulting native speakers to assist with proofreading, doesn't follow his own advice? He gets a wake-up call!
Where did my fascination with funny signs come from?
It wasn't until I did some real thinking about where my fascination for funny signs came from. Even I didn't realize how far back my interest in these signs extended.
The butcher’s natural ingredient quasi-drugs PETS poo—Huh?
Typical examples of awkward English on Korean product labels, instructions and signs.