Word Order

Sentence structure and correct word order are important in communication. It ensures clear, correct, and unambiguous communication. Take, for instance, these examples:

• Grammar is essential for clear communication.
• Communication grammar is essential for clear.

The difference between these two examples is the word order, which demonstrates the importance of having the right order when communicating, either verbally or in writing.

In this course, we will be discussing the basic word order in English. The rule of thumb in English word order is to have the subject before the verb, and finally, the object. So, the basic word order follows this rule: SUBJECT + VERB + OBJECT (SVO). This word order is also used in declarative statements or clauses.

Here are some examples:

• I (S) am cooking (V) at home (O).
• They (S) enjoyed (V) the play (O).

The above is the typical word order in English.

A sentence can also contain only subject and verb. So, here, the rule is: SUBJECT + VERB (SV).

• They (S) danced (V).
• He (S) slept (V).
• I (S) am cooking (V).

There are occasions when part of a clause or a sentence needs to be emphasized, and a different word order will pass along our message better. This is called an untypical word order.

In a declarative sentence, the word order is OBJECT + SUBJECT + VERB (OSV). In this word order, the object comes first, followed by the subject and verb.

Here are some examples:

• The apples (O) John (S) ate (V).
• The game (O) he (S) played (V).
• The room (O) we (S) already swept (V).

In the examples above, precedence is given to the object. This is evident from its appearance at the beginning of the sentence.

However, while OSV word order can be used in declarative sentences, it isn’t as common as SVO. In addition, as an elementary English speaker, you should follow the SUBJECT + VERB + OBJECT word order until you are proficient enough to try out the alternative order.