prescriptive grammar

noun

1. an approach to grammar that is concerned with establishing norms of correct and incorrect usage and formulating rules based on these norms to be followed by users of the language.

2. a set of grammatical rules based on such an approach.

Word History and Origins

Origin of prescriptive grammar¹

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

In 1862, when prescriptive grammar ruled, Thoreau wrote: “When I read some of the rules for speaking and writing the English language correctly … I think – Any fool can make a rule And every fool will mind it.”

Read more on The Guardian

One of the implications of prescriptive grammar is that anyone may talk and write as well as anyone else provided he follows the prescriptions laid down by the authority.

Read more on Time Magazine Archive