Like a good deal and some other idioms, this expression is denounced by some writers and defended by others. Grammatical construction supports more strongly the forms would better, would rather, etc. “I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.” “I would rather read than drive to-day.” “I would rather not go.” Omit rather and the superiority of would over had becomes apparent.
“I do not know if he sold his farm or exchanged it for city property.” Use whether.
Illy, Ill
Do not use illy for ill. The former is becoming obsolete, and the latter, as an adverb, is taking its place. Say “An ill-ventilated room,” not “an illy-ventilated room.”
Implicit
This word means tacitly understood, resting on the word or authority of another. It should not be used in the sense of unbounded, unlimited.
Individual
This word should not be used broadly in the sense of a person, but should always convey some thought of a single thing or person, as opposed to many.
Journal