Note 63 – Forever and for ever

For the background to my writing challenge, please read my first blog by clicking the following link – http://wp.me/p1x6Ui-4. If you would prefer to dive straight into note 63, then please read on…

When to use the words forever and for ever

The Pocket Writer’s Handbook (Penguin Reference Library), Martin Manser and Stephen Curtis defines these words as follows:

• For ever = for all future time
• Forever = constantly; with persistence

Some examples:

• I will probably keep a journal for ever
• That double glazing company is forever emailing me about special offers

Test

I thought it was about time I did a test, as I haven’t done one for a while.  Here are a few questions – please choose whether you think the sentences should contain the words ‘for ever’ or ‘forever’.  You can check your answers at the end of the blog:

Q1. I am not going to live for ever/forever

Q2. My friends are for ever/forever asking me to go to the pub after work

Q3. I am going to need your help with the housework for a while, but it’s not going to be for ever/forever

Please feel free to comment on this blog if you wish and don’t forget to send me any requests (relating to writing/English) that you would like me to blog about.  Hope you are enjoying your weekend.

Until tomorrow…

Sandra

This blog: https://mywritingnotebook.wordpress.com

My other blog: http://sandramadeira.wordpress.com

My website: www.tipsandluxuries.com (includes first chapter of my book)

Twitter: @madeirasandra and @tipsandluxuries

Reference list:

Pocket Writer’s Handbook (Penguin Reference Library), Martin Manser and Stephen Curtis

Answers:

Q1. I am not going to live for ever (for all future time)

Q2. My friends are forever asking me to go to the pub after work (constantly; with persistence)

Q3. I am going to need your help with the housework for a while, but it’s not going to be for ever (for all future time)