As language evolves over time, it is our collective agreement that gives power to the rules that govern it. Without this collective agreement, language would be nothing more than a collection of arbitrary sounds and symbols, devoid of meaning and purpose.
In the world of copy editing, the rules of language are especially important. A copy editor must be well-versed in the conventions of grammar, punctuation, and style, as these rules help to ensure that the intended meaning of a text is conveyed clearly and effectively.
However, the rules of language are not set in stone. They are constantly evolving and changing based on the needs and preferences of the people who use them. For example, the use of gender-neutral pronouns has become increasingly common in recent years as people seek to be more inclusive in their language.
As a copy editor, it is important to be aware of these changes and to adapt accordingly. This means staying up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in language use, as well as being open to new ideas and approaches.
At the same time, it is important not to lose sight of the fundamental principles of good writing and communication. No matter how much language changes, there will always be a need for clear and effective communication, and the rules of grammar and style will always play a role in achieving this.
Ultimately, it is our collective agreement that gives power to the rules that govern language. By working together to establish and maintain these rules, we help to ensure that language remains a powerful tool for communication and expression. As copy editors, we play an important role in this process, helping to ensure that the texts we work on are clear, effective, and engaging.
