Such expressions as more impossible, more
indispensable, more universal, more
uncontrollable, more unlimited, &c, are objectionable,
as they really enfeeble the meaning which it is the object of the
speaker or writer to strengthen. For instance, impossible
gains no strength by rendering it more impossible. This class
of error is common with persons who say, "A great large
house," "A great big animal," "A little small foot,"
"A tiny little hand."
Here, there, and where, originally denoting
place, may now, by common consent, he used to denote other meanings;
such as, "There I agree with you," "Where we differ,"
"We find pain where we expected pleasure," "Here you
mistake me."
Hence, whence, and thence, denoting
departure, &c, may be used without the word from. The idea
of from is included in the word whence—therefore it
is unnecessary to say "From whence."
Hither, thither, and whither, denoting to a
place, have generally been superseded by here, there,
and where. But there is no good reason why they should not be
employed. If, however, they are used, it is unnecessary to add the
word to, because that is implied—"Whither are you
going?" "Where are you going?" Each of these sentences is
complete. To say, "Where are you going to?" is redundant.
Two negatives destroy each other, and produce an
affirmative. "Nor did he not observe them," conveys
the idea that he did observe them.
But negative assertions are allowable. "His manners are not
unpolite," which implies that his manners are, in some degree,
marked by politeness.
Instead of "I had rather walk," say "I would
rather walk."
Instead of "I had better go," say "It were better that I
should go."
Instead of "I doubt not but I shall be able to go," say
"I doubt not that I shall be able to go."