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Subject:Re: Usage of "that" From:"Virginia L. Krenn" <asdxvlk -at- OKWAY -dot- OKSTATE -dot- EDU> Date:Tue, 30 Jan 1996 11:44:34 -0600
Laura Myott <lmyott -at- svcdoc -dot- mc -dot- xerox -dot- com> wrote:
> I have a question regarding usage of the word "that." When is it
> appropriate and when is it just added fluff? To give you an idea of
> what I mean, here are some sample sentences:
> "This section lists related documentation *that* you may find
> helpful."
> "This guide assumes *that* you have a basic understanding of..."
> "Ensure *that* the hood is securely fastened."
> In these sentences, is the word "that" necessary?
Yes, in all three of the above examples.
> I prefer to leave it in because I think *that* it sounds better, but
> that is my own opinion.
Sometimes, leaving the word, that, out of a sentence causes
confusion and makes the sentence more difficult to read.
