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Grammarian

Introduces the Word of the Day and encourages members to use it during the meeting. Gives a brief report on excellent grammar and vocabulary usage as well as areas for improvement.

Role overview

As Grammarian, your job is to help members strengthen their language skills. This includes:

• Introducing the Word of the Day
• Listening for and noting strong or creative language
• Noting improper grammar usage
• Encouraging use of more expressive and precise language

What to fill in on the agenda

After you sign up, open your role on the meeting agenda and add a Word of the Day (the word plus a short definition). You can enter it when you sign up or later with Add word of the day / Edit word of the day. Have it ready before the meeting so you can announce it clearly.

Before the meeting

• Choose a Word of the Day—ideally related to the meeting’s theme
• Select a word that’s easy to understand and use in conversation
• Prepare a short definition and a sample sentence using the word

When called to speak at the start of the meeting

Thank you, Mr./Madam Toastmaster, fellow Toastmasters and guests:

As Grammarian, I will be listening closely to the language used throughout tonight’s meeting. I’ll note strong examples of word choice and grammar, as well as any misuses.

I’ve also selected a Word of the Day to help expand our vocabulary: [insert word].

The meaning of the word is: [brief definition]. Here’s how it can be used in a sentence: ‘[Insert sentence using the word]’

All speakers tonight are encouraged to use the Word of the Day at least once during the meeting.

(Optional for fun: Members who do not use the word may be asked to contribute 25 cents to the club fine jar.)

During the meeting

• Write down who uses the Word of the Day
• Jot down any great language, clever phrasing, or grammar slips—avoid calling out specific people for errors

When called for the Grammarian’s report

Thank you, Mr./Madam General Evaluator.

Fellow Toastmasters and guests:

Here is my report as Grammarian:

The following members used the Word of the Day:

• [List names]

Some excellent examples of language used tonight include:

• [Give 1–2 quick examples of creative, vivid, or eloquent language]

A few grammar or language slips I noticed included:

• [Briefly mention general mistakes, e.g., subject-verb agreement, filler words— without naming names]

Thank you.

(If collecting fines, remind the group to drop their contributions into the club jar and give it to the Treasurer.)