Product Description

Usage and Abusage takes a long, hard look at the use and constant misuse of English. Declaring war on bad grammar, woolliness of expression and poor choice of vocabulary, this essential guide sets out both to highlight problems and pitfalls and to offer constructive advice on the proper use of English.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #28762 in Books
• Published on: 1999-08-05
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 416 pages

Sunday Telegraph
'A classic'

Daily Mail
'A handy linguistic reference book and provocative commentary on the present state of English writing'

Synopsis
Usage and Abusage takes a long, hard look at the use and constant misuse of English. Declaring war on bad grammar, woolliness of expression and poor choice of vocabulary, this essential guide sets out both to highlight problems and pitfalls and to offer constructive advice on the proper use of English.

Customer Reviews

A useful, accurate view of English Syntax
This fine tome is a must for anyone who cares about the state of English Language. Yet, despite laudable intentions indeed, the standard (for example, where does the apostrophe go when referring to Xerses' army?)is now almost laughably high!

All of this is not to undervalue the power and use of such a book, and there is a good sense of humour in every entry:

"Gent, 'a gentleman', is an illiteracy except when it applies to such a man as might be expected to use the word."

I would thoroughly recommend this book and propose that readers dip into it frequently. They will be educated, amused and delighted.