Is 'This Song Is Still My Favourite' or 'This Song Still My Favourite' Grammatically Correct?

Confusion often arises when dealing with idiomatic expressions and grammatical rules in language. One such common question is: Which is grammatically correct, “this song is still my favourite” or “this song still my favourite”? Let’s delve into the nuances of correct usage and explore why one form is preferred over the other.

Grammatical Correctness: A Clear Understanding

The grammatically correct phrase is “this song is still my favourite”. The inclusion of the verb "is" is essential for the sentence to be complete and coherent. Here, we have two examples provided for clarity:

This song is still my favourite. This is my favorite song. This song has always been my favorite.

Stevie Wonder's hit “Isn't She Lovely” is also frequently cited as a favorite, demonstrating the correct usage in a real-world context.

Explanation and Examples

The second example provided, “this song still my favourite”, is incomplete because it lacks a verb. The word “still” in this context functions as an adverb of degree rather than a verb. Therefore, it cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. Let’s break down why:

This song still my favourite: This statement is grammatically incorrect because it lacks a verb to complete the thought. Adding a sentence fragment to this, one might say, “This song still my favourite was written [and/or sung] by……” This song is still my favourite: This statement is grammatically correct and adds the necessary verb “is” to fully express the idea.

Another example, “This song still my favourite”, is grammatically incorrect due to the lack of a verb. However, if a comma were inserted, and a further phrase added, it could be considered a complete sentence, although it’s not necessary. For instance:

This song still my favourite, it was written by Stevie Wonder.

Punctuation and Capitalization

Proper capitalization and punctuation are crucial, even if they are somewhat optional in some contexts. For clarity and to avoid any misinterpretation, it is recommended to use:

Proper capitalization: The first word of the sentence and proper nouns should be capitalized. Punctuation: End sentences with a period, and consider using commas to improve readability, especially in longer sentences.

An example sentence keeping these in mind would be:

This Song Is Still My Favourite.

Note: In the case of song titles, it is customary to capitalize each significant word, or as per individual preference and stylistic guidelines.

Verdict

In conclusion, the correct grammatical form is “this song is still my favourite”. Without the necessary verb "is", the sentence is incomplete. Remember, including the verb helps maintain grammatical correctness and clarity in communication. Here are some key takeaways:

Include the verb "is" to ensure grammatical correctness. Use proper capitalization and punctuation for clarity. Consider adding commas for better readability, especially in longer sentences.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your sentences are not only grammatically correct but also effectively convey your intended message.