| normative grammar |
| Definition -
(1) Grammatical rules proposed as a fixed standard to which language use must conform. (2) A treatise setting out such rules. Notes: 1. A person who promotes this is called a normative grammarian. |
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Example - Robert Lowth's A Short Introduction to English Grammar (1762). For example, in the following he advises writers to avoid ending sentences with prepositions: "This is an Idiom which our language is strongly inclined to; it prevails in common conversation, and suits very well with the familiar style in writing; but the placing of the Preposition before the Relative is more graceful, as well as more perspicuous; and agrees much better with the solemn and elevated Style." |
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Oxford English Dictionary - The term's first citation is from 1901: "Normative or didactic grammar sets up a certain standard as correct." (H. Oertel Lect. on Study of Lang. ii. 87) |
