We've ranked the best etymology books using expert recommendations, sales data, and millions of reader ratings. At Shortform, we know books. Our book guides are the best in the world. Learn why.
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1
The Mother Tongue: English and How It Got That Way
With dazzling wit and astonishing insight, Bill Bryson—the acclaimed author of The Lost Continent—brilliantly explores the remarkable history, eccentricities, resilience and sheer fun of the English language. From the first descent of the larynx into the throat (why you can talk but your dog can't), to the fine lost art of swearing, Bryson tells the fascinating, often uproarious story of an inadequate, second-rate tongue of peasants that developed into one of the world's largest growth industries.
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The Etymologicon: A Circular Stroll through the Hidden Connections of the English Language
Mark Forsyt
5.0
The Etymologicon springs from Mark Forsyth's Inky Fool blog on the strange connections between words. It's an occasionally ribald, frequently witty and unerringly erudite guided tour of the secret labyrinth that lurks beneath the English language, taking in monks and monkeys, film buffs and buffaloes, and explaining precisely what the Rolling Stones have to do with gardening.
One of the most popular personal development and self-improvement books of all time, Think and Grow Rich has sold over 100 million copies worldwide since its first publication during the Great Depression. In this hardcover edition, Napoleon Hill presents a "Philosophy of Achievement" in 13 principles drawn from the success stories of such greats as Andrew Carnegie, Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, and other millionaires of his time.
Think and Grow Rich reveals the secrets that can bring you fortune. By suppressing negative thoughts and keeping your focus on the long term, you can find true and lasting success. Napoleon Hill details his philosophy through the following 13 principles:
Desire Faith Autosuggestion Specialized Knowledge Imagination Organized Planning Decision Persistence Power of the Master Mind The Mystery of Sex Transmutation The Subconscious Mind The Brain The Sixth Sense Follow the steps outlined here, and you may just find the path to your own personal fortune.
For anyone interested in my career path, I’d recommend books in various genres. On a real practical level, I’d certainly recommend reading any and all plant/mushroom/tree/ecology/nature books you can acquire. It’s even more helpful to read the books that pertain specifically to your ecosystem and bioregion. Additionally, I’d also recommend reading a plethora of business and marketing books — both old and new alike. Think And Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill, Crush It! by Gary Vaynerchuk, Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini, and anything by Seth Godin would be my top recommendations. And of course, every book I mentioned in the previous answers are strongly recommended as well. [source]
Alan Pierce
This book dramatically changed the way I structured my day to day life. Based on over two decades of personal interviews and studies of some of history's’ greatest minds, the author distills the lessons he learned and details how you can train and condition your mind through daily habit to master your actions. The way it promotes a disciplined and holistic approach of continual self-improvement, goal setting and strategic decision making really resonated with me. [source]
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The Professor and the Madman: A Tale of Murder, Insanity and the Making of the Oxford English Dictionary
Simon Winchester
4.6
The Professor and the Madman, masterfully researched and eloquently written, is an extraordinary tale of madness, genius, and the incredible obsessions of two remarkable men that led to the making of the Oxford English Dictionary -- and literary history. The compilation of the OED, begun in 1857, was one of the most ambitious projects ever undertaken. As definitions were collected, the overseeing committee, led by Professor James Murray, discovered that one man, Dr. W. C. Minor, had submitted more than ten thousand. When the committee insisted on honoring him, a shocking truth came to light: Dr. Minor, an American Civil War veteran, was also an inmate at an asylum for the criminally insane.
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Recommended by Peter Gilliver.
Peter Gilliver
W.C. Minor was a member of the public, but he just happened to be a murderer who was banged up in Broadmoor. [source]
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Dictionary of Word Origins: Histories of More Than 8,000 English-Language Words
John Ayto
4.5
The average English speaker knows 50,000 words in contemporary use - 25 more words than there are stars in the night sky visible to the naked eye. Yet stripped down to its origins, this apparently huge vocabulary is in reality a much smaller number of words from Latin, French and the Germanic languages. It is estimated that every year, 800 neologisms are added to the English language: acronyms - 'yuppie', blended words - 'motel', and those taken from foreign languages - 'savoir-faire'. The Bloomsbury Dictionary of Word Origins provides a concise history of over 8,000 of the most commonly used words. The range of information spans from derivations as simple as 'a' and 'one' from 'an', to historical relations between words which would be obscure to all but the most lexically-minded. For instance 'vice' with its several uses in English - a wickedness, a holding tool - is derived via Old French from two separate Latin words: 'vitium' (defect, offence), and 'vitis' (vine) which gave 'viticulture'. The Bloomsbury Dictionary of Word Origins demonstrates how the diverse influences on English have given rise to some unlikely but fascinating lexical relations. 'Bishop' had no ecclesiastical origins, but was in fact derived from the Greek 'episkopos', meaning 'overseer', and shares origins with 'spy'. In strict etymological terms, a 'dairy' should employ a female kneader of bread. Laid out in an A-Z format with detailed cross references, written in a style that is both authoritative and accessible, the Bloomsbury Dictionary of Word Origins is a valuable historical guide to the English language.
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Made in America: An Informal History of the English Language in the United States
Bill Bryson
4.5
In Made in America, Bill Bryson de-mythologizes his native land, explaining how a dusty hamlet with neither woods nor holly became Hollywood; how the Wild West wasn't won; why Americans say "lootenant" and "Toosday"; and exactly why Mr. Yankee Doodle called his feathered cap "Macaroni."
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The Elements of Eloquence: How to Turn the Perfect English Phrase
Mark Forsyth
4.4
The idiosyncratic, erudite and brilliantly funny new book from Mark Forsyth, bestselling author of The Etymologicon and The Horologicon.
In an age unhealthily obsessed with substance, this is a book on the importance of pure style.
From classic poetry to pop lyrics and from the King James Bible to advertising slogans, Mark Forsyth explains the secrets that make a phrase - such as ‘Tiger, tiger, burning bright’ or ‘To be or not to be’ - memorable.
In his inimitably entertaining and witty style he takes apart famous lines and shows how you too can write like Shakespeare or Oscar Wilde. Whether you’re aiming for literary immortality or just an unforgettable one-liner, The Elements of Eloquence proves that you don't need to have anything to say - you simply need to say it well.
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Recommended by Bill Liao.
Bill Liao
The human world occurs in language so best get good at it! [source]
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Empires of the Word: A Language History of the World
Nicholas Ostler
4.4
An unusual and authoritative 'natural history of languages' that narrates the ways in which one language has superseded or outlasted another at different times in history. The story of the world in the last five thousand years is above all the story of its languages. Some shared language is what binds any community together, and makes possible both the living of a common history and the telling of it. Yet, the history of the world's great languages has rarely been examined. Empires of the Word is the first to bring together the tales in all their glorious variety: the amazing innovations - in education, culture and diplomacy - devised by speakers in the Middle East; the uncanny resilience of Chinese throughout twenty centuries of invasions; the progress of Sanskrit from north India to Java and Japan; the struggle that gave birth to the languages of modern Europe; and the global spread of English.
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Recommended by Henry Hitchings.
Henry Hitchings
It’s a history of all languages – some have called it a macro-history. The ambition of this book is really extraordinary. There have been lots of histories of English, and there are lots of histories of other languages in those languages, but actually to try and write a history of the whole of language is an incredibly audacious thing, and Ostler pulls it off. [source]
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Frindle
Andrew Clements
4.4
From bestselling and award-winning author Andrew Clements, a quirky, imaginative tale about creative thought and the power of words that will have readers inventing their own words.
Is Nick Allen a troublemaker? He really just likes to liven things up at school -- and he's always had plenty of great ideas. When Nick learns some interesting information about how words are created, suddenly he's got the inspiration for his best plan ever...the frindle. Who says a pen has to be called a pen? Why not call it a frindle? Things begin innocently enough as Nick gets his friends to use the new word. Then other people in town start saying frindle. Soon the school is in an uproar, and Nick has become a local hero. His teacher wants Nick to put an end to all this nonsense, but the funny thing is frindle doesn't belong to Nick anymore. The new word is spreading across the country, and there's nothing Nick can do to stop it.
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The Lost Words
Macfarlane
4.3
From Acorn to Weasel: a gorgeous, hand-illustrated, large-format spellbook celebrating the magic and wonder of the natural world
All over the country, there are words disappearing from children's lives. Words like Dandelion, Otter, Bramble, Acorn and Lark represent the natural world of childhood, a rich landscape of discovery and imagination that is fading from children's minds.
The Lost Words stands against the disappearance of wild childhood. It is a joyful celebration of the poetry of nature words and the living glory of our distinctive, British countryside. With acrostic spell-poems by peerless wordsmith Robert Macfarlane and hand-painted illustrations by Jackie Morris, this enchanting book captures the irreplaceable magic of language and nature for all ages.
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Recommended by Zoe Greaves.
Zoe Greaves
The illustrations are utterly breathtaking. Jackie Morris is an illustrator that I just find astonishing—she’s got to be one of the most brilliant artists working in children’s books at the moment. [source]
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The Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation: An Easy-To-Use Guide with Clear Rules, Real-World Examples, and Reproducible Quizzes
Jane Straus, Lester Kaufman, et al.
4.3
Recommended by Mark Nichol.
Mark Nichol
This book is good for beginners, but I also find it helpful for people who might consider themselves experts. It’s very clean, and it’s in a workbook format with many exercises in it. You read a short, simple lesson about adjectives and adverbs, or about when you use ‘that’ or ‘which’ in a sentence, and then you can practise with the exercises. [source]
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Word Power Made Easy: The Complete Handbook for Building a Superior Vocabulary
Norman Lewis
4.3
Do You Always Use the Right Word Can You Pronounce It -- and Spell It -- Correctly Do You Know How to Avoid Illiterate Expressions Do You Speak Grammatically, Without Embarrassing Mistakes If the answer to any of these questions is NO, you ought to read Word Power Made Easy. Now thoroughly revised to eliminate outmoded references and to to reflect current idioms, it remains the best and quickest means to a better vocabulary in the English language. Each chapter ends with review. Each section ends with a progressive check. Numerous tests will help you increase and retain the knowledge you acquired. Word Power Made Easy does more than just ass words to you vocabulary. It teaches ideas and a method of broadening knowledge as an integral part of the vocabulary building process.
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English Words from Latin and Greek Elements
Donald M. Ayers, Thomas D. Worthen, et al.
4.3
Since 1965, Donald Ayers' English Words from Latin and Greek Elements has helped thousands of students to a broader vocabulary by showing them how to recognize classical roots in modern English words. Its second edition, published in 1986, has confirmed that vocabulary is best taught by root, not rote. The importance of learning classical word roots is already acknowledged by vocabulary texts that devote chapters to them.
Why a whole book based on this approach? Ayers' text exposes students to a wider range of roots, introduces new English words in context sentences, and reinforces vocabulary through exercises. It promotes more practice with roots so that students learn to use them as tools in their everyday encounters with new words. English Words is written from the standpoint of English; it neither attempts to teach students Latin or Greek nor expects a knowledge of classical languages on the part of instructors. Its success has been demonstrated at both the secondary and college levels, and it can be used effectively with students in remedial or accelerated programs.
An Instructor's Manual (gratis with adoption) and a Workbook are also available.
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Our Magnificent Bastard Tongue: The Untold History of English
John McWhorter
4.3
A survey of the quirks and quandaries of the English language, focusing on our strange and wonderful grammar
Why do we say "I am reading a catalog" instead of "I read a catalog"? Why do we say "do" at all? Is the way we speak a reflection of our cultural values? Delving into these provocative topics and more, Our Magnificent Bastard Language distills hundreds of years of fascinating lore into one lively history.
Covering such turning points as the little-known Celtic and Welsh influences on English, the impact of the Viking raids and the Norman Conquest, and the Germanic invasions that started it all during the fifth century ad, John McWhorter narrates this colorful evolution with vigor. Drawing on revolutionary genetic and linguistic research as well as a cache of remarkable trivia about the origins of English words and syntax patterns, Our Magnificent Bastard Tongue ultimately demonstrates the arbitrary, maddening nature of English--and its ironic simplicity due to its role as a streamlined lingua franca during the early formation of Britain. This is the book that language aficionados worldwide have been waiting for (and no, it's not a sin to end a sentence with a preposition).
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Mer to Moor: Kemet until Now: The Etymology, Phonology, Semantics and Morphology of the Word Moor
Cozmo El and G.S. Victor Taylor El
4.3
The Etymology, Phonology, Semantics and Morphology of the word Moor from Ancient Times. Hieroglyphics begins to take on a lettering system in the form of an upper Kemetic Script known as Proto- Sinatic or Ancient Moabite/Cannanite from which the Greek, Roman, Latin and English Alphabet are derived. Ancient words that have been passed down through this script still hold the intrinsic meanings of those letters and have been preserved in secret societies for ages. These meanings are not present in modern dictionaries due to the morphing of language itself overtime. However, because the ancients either observed or affixed an inherent meaning to the letters and later formed word roots according to those meanings, we can access the ancient meaning of ancient words that have been passed down and have retained not only their inherent meaning but their general and common meanings. Thus it is with the word Moor. This book comes complete with references and internet links to further research.
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The Horologicon: A Day's Jaunt Through the Lost Words of the English Language
Mark Forsyth
4.3
The Horologicon (or book of hours) gives you the most extraordinary words in the English language, arranged according to the hour of the day when you really need them.
Do you wake up feeling rough? Then you’re philogrobolized. Pretending to work? That’s fudgelling, which may lead to rizzling if you feel sleepy after lunch, though by dinner time you will have become a sparkling deipnosophist.
From Mark Forsyth, author of the bestselling The Etymologicon, this is a book of weird words for familiar situations. From ante-jentacular to snudge by way of quafftide and wamblecropt, at last you can say, with utter accuracy, exactly what you mean.
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History in English Words
Owen Barfield
4.2
Owen Barfield's original and thought-provoking works over three-quarters of a century made him a legendary cult figure. History in English Words, his classic historical excursion through the English language, is now back in print after five years.
This popular book provides a brief, brilliant history of those who have spoken the Indo-European tongues. It is illustrated throughout by current English words—whose derivation from other languages, whose history in use and changes of meaning—record and unlock the larger history.
"In our language alone, not to speak of its many companions, the past history of humanity is spread out in an imperishable map, just as the history of the mineral earth lies embedded in the layers of its outer crust.... Language has preserved for us the inner, living history of our soul. It reveals the evolution of consciousness" (Owen Barfield).
About the Author: Owen Barfield (1898-1997), British philosopher and critic, has been called the "First and Last Inkling" because of his influential and enduring role in the group known as the Oxford Inklings, which included C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Charles Williams. It was Barfield who first advanced the ideas about language, myth, and belief that became identified with the thought and art of the Inklings. He is the author of numerous books, including Poetic Diction; Romanticism Comes of Age; Unancestoral Voice; History, Guilt, and Habit; and Worlds Apart, as well as works of fiction and poetry. His history of the evolution of human consciousness, Saving the Appearances: A Study in Idolatry, achieved a place in the list of the "100 Best Spiritual Books of the Century."
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Recommended by Henry Hitchings.
Henry Hitchings
He was a very wide-ranging amateur scholar of a type that we don’t tend to have any more. Maybe because he was a solicitor for a significant part of his life, he didn’t have to genuflect before the pieties of academia and could pursue the things that interested him. He has the rigour of an academic scholar but the romantic sympathy of a creative writer. [source]
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The Story of English in 100 Words
David Crystal
4.2
The world's foremost expert on the English language takes us on an entertaining and eye-opening tour of the history of our vernacular through the ages.
In this entertaining history of the world's most ubiquitous language, David Crystal draws on one hundred words that best illustrate the huge variety of sources, influences and events that have helped to shape our vernacular since the first definitively English word — ‘roe’ — was written down on the femur of a roe deer in the fifth century.
Featuring ancient words ('loaf'), cutting edge terms that reflect our world ('twittersphere'), indispensable words that shape our tongue ('and', 'what'), fanciful words ('fopdoodle') and even obscene expressions (the "c word"...), David Crystal takes readers on a tour of the winding byways of our language via the rude, the obscure and the downright surprising.
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Wheelock's Latin
Frederic M. Wheelock, Richard A. LaFleur
4.2
This book contains: 40 chapters with grammatical explanations and readings drawn from the works of Rome's major prose and verse writers; Self-tutorial exercises, each with an answer key, for independent study; An extensive English–Latin/Latin–English vocabulary section; A rich selection of original Latin readings—unlike other Latin textbooks, which contain primarily made-up texts; Etymological aids, maps, and dozens of images illustrating aspects of the classical culture and mythology presented in the chapter readings.
Also included are expanded notes on the literary passages, comments on vocabulary, and translation tips; new comprehension and discussion questions; and new authentic classical Latin readings, including Roman graffiti, in every chapter.
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American Sign Language Dictionary
Martin L.A. Sternberg
4.2
An illustrated abridgment of the most authoritative reference book on sign language, with well-written and easily understood instructions for the use of each sign. More than 5,000 signs and 8,000 illustrations. And now includes more than 500 new signs and 1,500 new illustrations.
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The Adventure of English: The Biography of a Language
Melvyn Bragg
4.2
English is understood by around two thousand million people across the world. Yet it was very nearly wiped out in its early years. Melvyn Bragg explores the story of the English language - from its beginnings as a minor Germanic dialect to its position today as a truly established global language.
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English Grammar in Use Book with Answers: A Self-Study Reference and Practice Book for Intermediate Learners of English
Raymond Murphy
4.2
English Grammar in Use with Answers, authored by Raymond Murphy, is the first choice for intermediate (B1-B2) learners and covers all the grammar required at this level. It is a self-study book with simple explanations and lots of practice exercises, and has helped millions of people around the world to communicate in English. It is also trusted by teachers and can be used as a supplementary text in classrooms.
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The Best Punctuation Book, Period
June Casagrande
4.2
PUNCTUATE WITH CONFIDENCE--NO MATTER THE STYLE
Confused about punctuation? There's a reason. Everywhere you turn, publications seem to follow different rules on everything from possessive apostrophes to hyphens to serial commas. Then there are all the gray areas of punctuation--situations the rule books gloss over or never mention at all. At last, help has arrived.
This all-in-one reference from grammar columnist June Casagrande covers the basic rules of punctuation plus the finer points not addressed anywhere else, offering clear answers to perplexing questions about semicolons, quotation marks, periods, apostrophes, and more. Better yet, this is the only guide that uses handy icons to show how punctuation rules differ for book, news, academic, and science styles--so you can boldly switch between essays, online newsletters, reports, fiction, and magazine and news articles.
Style guides don't cover everything, but never fear! This handbook features rulings from an expert "Punctuation Panel" so you can see how working pros approach sticky situations. And the second half of the book features an alphabetical master list of commonly punctuated terms worth its weight in gold, combining rulings from the major style guides and showing exactly where they differ. With The Best Punctuation Book, Period, you'll be able to handle any punctuation predicament in a flash--and with aplomb.
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English for Everyone: Level 1 Practice Book - Beginner English: ESL Workbook, Interactive English Learning for Adults
DK
4.2
Our Practice Book (Level 1) offers great exercises and examples to introduce English for beginners including key language skills, grammar, and vocabulary. English for Everyone uses visual teaching methods to introduce practical English usage, reinforced through a variety of exercises and examples in our Practice Book (Level 1).The Level 1 Practice Book helps you to develop the foundations for the English language, from introducing yourself and talking about your home, city, and hobbies, to expanding your vocabulary, and understanding grammar and punctuation. When used alongside our Course Book (Level 1), this workbook is ideal for English test preparations or ESL lesson plans.Whether you are looking for ESL teaching resources, or a structured program for adults to learn English as a second language, the English for Everyone Practice Books provide practice questions and exercises focusing on:Grammar: Applying new language rules into different contexts with visual breakdowns of English grammar in useVocabulary: Cement understanding of key English vocabulary with visual cues to help understand the exercisesReading: Examine target language topics in real-life English examples to support effective English language learningWriting: Improve core understanding of English by producing written passages of English textListening: Test understanding of spoken English with extensive English-speaking audio materials integrated into every unit (All supplementary audio is available on the DK English for Everyone website and IOS/Android App).Speaking: ESL learners can practice and compare spoken English with our free online audio resourcesThe English for Everyone Level 1 resources cover the skills and topics required for all major global English-language exams and reference frameworks including:CEFR: A1TOEFL (test paper): 0-250TOEFL (computer-based test): 0-30TOEFL (online test): 0-10IELTS: 0-2.5TOEIC: 0-200English for Everyone is a series of guides and practice books that supports English learning for adults from a beginner level, to intermediate, and advanced practical English. Offering an easy-to-follow format that offers guidance for both teaching English as a second or foreign language, and a self-study approach with resources available to improve English speaking, reading, and writing.
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Chambers Dictionary of Etymology
Robert K. Barnhart, Sol Steinmetz
4.2
How are the words 'door' German 'Tzr' and Sanskrit 'dvar' related? When did the word Blarney first appear in print? What's the linguistic history of the word 'history'? The Chambers Etymological Dictionary holds all the answers for any person curious about the origins of the words they use, and how these words have changed over time. This fascinating dictionary explores the development of meaning, spelling, and pronunciation of over 25,000 English words. Over 30,000 detailed entries trace words back to their Proto-Germanic or Indo-European roots, and include words borrowed from other languages, as well as the sources and dates of their first recorded use. For many years academics, wordsmiths, crossword lovers, and language enthusiasts of all stripes have turned to this celebrated volume as their reference of choice in lexical matters. First published as the Barnhart Etymological Dictionary, the Chambers Dictionary of Etymology offers a unique combination of approachability and authoritativeness in an accessible single-volume format, making it an essential etymological resource for the expert, and a fascinating reference for the general reader. Sample entry from the Chambers Etymological Dictionary: blarney n. flattering, coaxing talk. 1766, Lady Blarny (for Blarney), a smooth-talking flatterer in Goldsmith's the Vicar of Wakefield, her name being a literary contrivance in allusion to Blarney Stone, a stone in a castle near Cork, Ireland. Anyone kissing the stone is supposed to become skillful in flattering and coaxing. The word is used in its general sense in a letter of Sir Walter Scott (1796).
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Barnhart Concise Dictionary of Etymology
Robert K. Barnhart
4.2
As all lovers of language know, words are the source of our very understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Often, however, our use of language is so automatic that we neglect to consider where those words came from and what they assume. What are the implications, beyond the simple dictionary definitions, of using words such as privilege, hysteria, seminal, and gyp?
Browsing through the pages of The Barhart Concise Dictionary of Etymology is like exploring the historical, political, and rhetorical wonderland of our linguistic heritage. We see the evolution of ideas, as rootword connections that now seem arbitrary are traced to schools of thought from the past. We also find an opportunity to examine how the sometimes backwards, sometimes hilarious, and sometimes illuminating ideologies built into our language affect our modern thinking.
Written in a fresh, accessible style, this book provides the derivations of over 21,000 English-language words without resorting to the use of abbreviations, symbols, or technical terminology. Drawing on the most current American scholarship, and focusing onthe core words in contemporary English, The Barnhart Concise Dictionary of Etymology is both a diverting browse and a thinking person's Bible.
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Why Do We Say That? 101 Idioms, Phrases, Sayings & Facts! A Brief History On Where They Come From!
Scott Matthews
4.2
Why do you “call shotgun” when you want the front passenger seat? What does “letting the cat out of the bag” have to do with divulging secrets? Why do you ask people to “cut to the chase”? Why do you hear all those juicy rumors “through the grapevine”?Like many people, you’ve probably used idioms or phrases like these without giving them a second thought. But if you were to take a moment to step back and learn about them you’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover the mesmerizing and sometimes outright bizarre origins to these fun sayings!In Why Do We Say That, we have curated 101 of the most regularly used idioms, proverbs, turns of phrases, and colloquial terms that have the most fascinating backstories. For each phrase, we explain how it was coined, how its use evolved through the ages, and how it gained its contemporary use.Inside you will discover:✔️ What the sanitary conditions of 17th century London have to do with “its raining cats and dogs” today.✔️ What taking things “with a grain of salt” has to do with an ancient remedy for poison.✔️ What Southeast Asian warrior traditions have to do with the term “to run amuck.”✔️ Why “to break a leg” became something worth aspiring to in the Elizabethan theaters.And many, many more!Whether you're a native English speaker looking to expand your vocabulary, an ESL student or language learner wanting to speak English more naturally and confidently, or a trivia lover fascinated by word origins and quirky English expressions — this idiom book is packed with fun facts, fascinating backstories, and memorable phrases. You'll laugh, learn, and never hear common English idioms the same way again.Click the Buy Now button at the top of the page to unravel the mysteries behind popular English idioms.
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Placenames of the World: Origins and Meanings of the Names for 6,600 Countries, Cities, Territories, Natural Features and Historic Sites
Adrian Room
4.2
A placename is often much more than just a label. A name may bespeak the history of a nation, the culture of a people, or the hopes of an individual. Such connections are revealed in this extensive alphabetical reference to placenames of the world, which offers an in-depth look at the origins of each. First published in 1997, the work in this new edition contains over 7,000 entries, including 1,000 new placenames from previously under-represented areas such as China and Japan. Entries cover natural features such as mountains, rivers and lakes as well as manmade entities such as cities and countries. Each entry includes the name of the feature; a brief description and its geographical location; and the origin of the name with relevant historical, biographical and topographical details. Appendices give the meanings of common elements of non-English placenames (e.g., Abu, as in Abu Dhabi, means father of); major placenames in European languages (e.g., Pays-Bas and Paesi Bassi are the French and Italian names, respectively, for what English speakers call the Netherlands); and transcribed Chinese-language equivalents for the names of the world's countries and capitals.
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Merriam-Webster's 365 New Words-A-Year 2027 Day-to-Day Calendar
Merriam-Webster
4.2
Expand your vocabulary every day with a page-a-day calendar from Merriam-Webster featuring new words, definitions, and language insights for curious minds and word lovers.Discover a new word every day with the Merriam-Webster's 365 New Words-A-Year 2027 Day-to-Day Calendar. Each page introduces a unique word along with its pronunciation key, definition, sample sentence, and a detailed explanation of its meaning and origin on the back.Perfect for word enthusiasts, educators, writers, students, and lifelong learners, this calendar transforms everyday moments into opportunities to strengthen vocabulary and explore the richness of the English language. With 365 words to discover throughout the year, it offers a simple and engaging way to learn something new every day.Feature includes:Dimensions: 4.606" x 4.606" page sizeDate Range: 12-month calendar spanning January–December 2027 with combined weekend pagesPhysical Features: FSC-certified paper with soy-based ink, recyclable chipboard easel backer, tear-off pages, plastic-free packagingContent Highlights: 365 unique words with pronunciation keys, definitions, sample sentences, word origins, and major world holidays and observancesDiscover new words, deepen your understanding of language, and enjoy the confidence that comes from building your vocabulary every day.
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Eats, Shoots & Leaves: The Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation
Lynne Truss
4.2
In Eats, Shoots & Leaves, former editor Lynne Truss, gravely concerned about our current grammatical state, boldly defends proper punctuation. She proclaims, in her delightfully urbane, witty, and very English way, that it is time to look at our commas and semicolons and see them as the wonderful and necessary things they are. Using examples from literature, history, neighborhood signage, and her own imagination, Truss shows how meaning is shaped by commas and apostrophes, and the hilarious consequences of punctuation gone awry.
Featuring a foreword by Frank McCourt, and interspersed with a lively history of punctuation from the invention of the question mark in the time of Charlemagne to George Orwell shunning the semicolon, Eats, Shoots & Leaves makes a powerful case for the preservation of proper punctuation.
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Wordslut: A Feminist Guide to Taking Back the English Language
Amanda Montell
4.2
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The Dragon Grammar Book: Grammar for Kids, Dragons and the Whole Kingdom
Diane Mae Robinson
4.2
Four-Time Gold Medal Winning Book in Children/Teen Education.
Finally! An easy-to-understand English grammar book with fun grammar lessons for middle grades and up. An excellent education reference for classroom and homeschool grammar lessons.
The Dragon Grammar Book is the perfect grammar study guide to help readers learn the rules of grammar and improve language art skills with ease and enjoyment. From multi-award-winning children's fantasy author, Diane Mae Robinson, The Dragon Grammar Book provides a fun and engaging approach to learning English grammar through easy-to-follow lessons, humorous example sentences, and chapter quizzes to conquer all those tricky grammar rules.
- Easy-To-Understand Lessons organized to gradually build on the basic grammar rules toward an intermediate level.
- Engaging Examples Sentences explain each grammar rule through a humorous and creative writing style.
- An Expansive Resource of grammar terminology, confusing words, punctuation rules, types of sentences and proper structure, parts of speech, verb agreement, and more.
- Quizzes with Answer Keys reinforce each lesson before proceeding to the next lesson.
Featuring the zany fantasy characters in the author's international-award-winning The Pen Pieyu Adventures series, The Dragon Grammar Book is sure to be enjoyed by kids, teens, young adults, and the whole kingdom.
2018 Book Excellence Awards, Winner, Education & Academics 2018 Readers' Favorite Book Awards, Gold Medal, Children-Education 2018 Literary Classics International Book Awards, Gold Medal, Educational Books 2018 Lumen Award for Literary Excellence
"Oriented toward pragmatic, real-world usage,The Dragon Grammar Book is a great resource for kids, their teachers, and anyone else who'd like to know more about language and how to use it. Most highly recommended."--Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite.
"With clear examples and fun activities, this book is a must-have for readers and aspiring writers." -Peter Takach, English Teacher and Grammarian
"Having a useful resource that engages students and includes a wide variety of grammar rules with short, fun examples is difficult to find. Robinson has produced a winner with this easy-to-navigate, all-inclusive, grammar book for kids." -Literary Titan
"I've rarely come across as well presented and entertaining an approach to what can be an intimidating subject, particularly for a young audience or for adults learning English as a second language. Robinson gets to the heart of the really puzzling aspects of grammar and offers them up in a format designed to make learning grammar more fun." -Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite
"As a homeschool mom, I love using this book to teach my kids homeschool grammar because it is fun and engaging and helps them actually understand grammar while having fun! " -Christine Suarez
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Ingles Para Latinos, Level 1
William C. Harvey M.S.
4.2
Publisher's Note: Products purchased from Third Party sellers are not guaranteed by the publisher for quality, authenticity, or access to any online entitlements included with the product.
Designed to teach Hispanics in the United States and Canada a practical working knowledge of English Updated with additional commonly-used phrases, new questions and answers for practice and review, and listening aids such as find-the-word boxes, jumbled words, and crosswords, the new edition of this informal language-learning program has been created to give Hispanics in the United States and Canada a practical working knowledge of English. Author William Harvey bypasses the dull rules of grammar, and instead familiarizes readers with often-used phrases, including a series of informal conversations among speakers in idiomatic American English. It also features tables that present commonly-used English verbs and verb tenses. Emphasis on correct pronunciation includes helpful tips and advice on pronunciation and listening comprehension. The downloadable audio uses spoken dialogues and coaching to emphasize correct pronunciation of informal American English.
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Words on the Move: Why English Won't—and Can't—Sit Still (Like, Literally)
John McWhorter
4.1
A bestselling linguist takes us on a lively tour of how the English language is evolving before our eyes -- and why we should embrace this transformation and not fight it
Language is always changing -- but we tend not to like it. We understand that new words must be created for new things, but the way English is spoken today rubs many of us the wrong way. Whether it’s the use of literally to mean “figuratively” rather than “by the letter,” or the way young people use LOL and like, or business jargon like What’s the ask? -- it often seems as if the language is deteriorating before our eyes.
But the truth is different and a lot less scary, as John McWhorter shows in this delightful and eye-opening exploration of how English has always been in motion and continues to evolve today. Drawing examples from everyday life and employing a generous helping of humor, he shows that these shifts are a natural process common to all languages, and that we should embrace and appreciate these changes, not condemn them.
Words on the Move opens our eyes to the surprising backstories to the words and expressions we use every day. Did you know that silly once meant “blessed”? Or that ought was the original past tense of owe? Or that the suffix -ly in adverbs is actually a remnant of the word like? And have you ever wondered why some people from New Orleans sound as if they come from Brooklyn?
McWhorter encourages us to marvel at the dynamism and resilience of the English language, and his book offers a lively journey through which we discover that words are ever on the move and our lives are all the richer for it.
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The Only Grammar Book You'll Ever Need: A One-Stop Source for Every Writing Assignment
Susan Thurman and Larry Shea
4.1
Never stress over a comma, colon, or dash again!
The Only Grammar Book You'll Ever Need is the ideal resource for everyone who wants to produce writing that is clear, concise, and grammatically excellent. Whether you're creating perfect professional documents, spectacular school papers, or effective personal letters, you'll find this handbook indispensable. From word choice to punctuation to organization, English teacher Susan Thurman guides you through getting your thoughts on paper with polish. Using dozens of examples, The Only Grammar Book You'll Ever Need provides guidelines for:
–Understanding the parts of speech and elements of a sentence –Avoiding the most common grammar and punctuation mistakes –Using correct punctuating in every sentence –Writing clearly and directly –Approaching writing projects, whether big or small
Easy to follow and authoritative, The Only Grammar Book You'll Ever Need provides all the necessary tools to make you successful with every type of written expression.
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The Oxford Dictionary of English Etymology
C.T. Onions
4.1
"The Oxford Dictionary of English Etymolgy" is the most comprehensive etymological dictionary of the English language ever published. It is based on the original edition of "The Oxford English Dictionary" but much augmented by further research on the etymology of English and other languages. Providing a fascinating insight into the development of English, it describes 38,000 words in 24,000 articles, which include:
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The Vocabulary Builder Workbook: Simple Lessons and Activities to Teach Yourself Over 1,400 Must-Know Words
Chris Lele
4.1
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Dictionary of the Strange, Curious, and Lovely
Robin Devoe
4.1
A curated list of the 3500 most interesting words in the English language.
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Focus on Grammar 3 with Myenglishlab
Marjorie Fuchs, Margaret Bonner, Miriam Westheimer
4.1
Building on the success of previous editions, Focus on Grammar, Fifth Edition continues to leverage its successful four-step approach that lets learners move from comprehension to communication within a clear and consistent structure. Centered on thematic instruction, Focus on Grammar combines comprehensive grammar coverage with abundant practice, critical thinking skills, and ongoing assessment, helping students communicate confidently, accurately, and fluently in everyday situations. The Fifth Edition continues to incorporate the findings of corpus linguistics in grammar notes, charts, and practice activities, while never losing sight of what is pedagogically sound and useful. New to This Edition New and updated content showcases culturally relevant topics of interest to modern learners. Updated grammar charts and redesigned grammar notes with clear, corpus-informed grammar explanations reflect real and natural language usage, allowing students to grasp the most important aspects of the grammar. Expanded communicative activities encourage collaboration and application of target grammar in a variety of settings. New unit-ending From Grammar to Writing section allows students to apply grammar in writing through structured tasks from pre-writing to editing. New assessment tools, including course diagnostic tests, formative and summative assessments, and a flexible gradebook, are closely aligned with unit learning outcomes to inform instruction and measure progress. FOG Go app for iPhone® and Android® lets students easily navigate Student Book audio clips on their phone or tablet. Updated for the Fifth Edition, MyEnglishLab: Focus on Grammar offers students engaging practice and video grammar presentations anytime, anywhere with immediate feedback and remediation tasks to help promote accuracy. Other Highlights Scaffolded exercises help learners bridge the gap between identifying grammatical structures and using them with confidence and accuracy. High-interest readings in multiple genres expose students to the form, meaning, and use of grammar in natural contexts. Key vocabulary taught, practiced, and recycled throughout the unit ensures acquisition. Listening tasks give students multiple opportunities to focus on spoken English and develop listening skills. Mapped to the Global Scale of English.
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English for Everyone: English Idioms
DK
4.1
Ideal for anyone who wants to learn English to native-speaker standard and prepare for major English exams including IELTS, TOEIC, and TOEFL, this fun and engaging visual guide to the most common and useful English idioms and phrases will help you understand and remember English idiomatic expressions and their meanings, making your English more fluent and natural.
English for Everyone: English Idioms combines an innovative visual teaching method with the best of DK design to make one of the most difficult aspects of learning English as a foreign language incredibly easy. Hundreds of expressions are presented in context, with crystal-clear definitions and attractive illustrations that show each idiom's literal and idiomatic meaning. The book also covers English collocations and commonly confused words, helping you avoid the kind of mistakes that native English speakers would never make. Each teaching module is followed by tightly focused practice exercises to help you remember what you have learned.
Extensive supporting audio is integrated throughout the course, with every expression in the context of its sample sentence recorded by native English speakers. The audio is free and available online, and can be played, paused, and repeated as often as you like, to help you perfect your pronunciation of each expression. Suitable for learners at all levels, English for Everyone: English Idioms is an exciting and intuitive guide to improving your understanding of English and the style of your written and spoken English.
Series Overview: English for Everyone series teaches all levels of English, from beginner to advanced, to speakers of English as a second language. Innovative visual learning methods introduce key language skills, grammar, and vocabulary, which are reinforced with a variety of speaking, reading, and writing exercises to make the English language easier to understand and learn. Visit www.dkefe.com to find out more.
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English Vocabulary in Use: Advanced Book with Answers: Vocabulary Reference and Practice
Michael McCarthy and Felicity O'Dell
4.1
The words you need to communicate with confidence. Vocabulary explanations and practice for advanced level (C1 to C2) learners of English. Perfect for both self-study and classroom activities. Quickly expand your vocabulary with over 100 units of easy to understand explanations and practice exercises. Be confident about what you are learning, thanks to Cambridge research into how English is really spoken and written, and remember words more effectively with lots of opportunities for personalised practice.
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Inglés en 100 días - Inglés para conversar / English in 100 Days: Conversational English
Inglés en 100 días
4.1
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Dictionary of Word Roots and Combining Forms
Donald J. Borror
4.1
One of the outstanding problems of the biologist, whether he be beginning student or specialists, is that of understanding technical terms. The best way to understand and remember technical terms is to understand first their component parts, or roots. This dictionary has been designed primarily to meet the needs of the beginning student, the medical student, and the taxonomist, but it should be of value to all biologists.
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The Official Guide to the TOEFL Test with DVD-ROM, Fifth Edition
Educational Testing Service
4.1
The one and only bestselling official guide to the TOEFL, from the makers of the test! Now expanded with a third actual TOEFL exam
This Official Guide to the TOEFL Test is the best, most reliable guide to the test that is used around the world to assess foreign applicants to U.S. and Canadian universities for English proficiency. It includes real TOEFL questions for practice, as well as explanations of every section of the test and information on what is expected for every speaking and writing task. You will learn how to construct a good answer and how to integrate speaking, listening, and writing skills to demonstrate college-level English proficiency.
Inside you'll find: 600 real TOEFL questions from the test-makers Online access to authentic TOEFL iBT practice tests Strategies for success
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Alphabet Juice: The Energies, Gists, and Spirits of Letters, Words, and Combinations Thereof; Their Roots, Bones, Innards, Piths, Pips, and Secret Parts, Tinctures, Tonics, and Essences; With Examples of Their Usage Foul and Savory
Roy Blount Jr.
4.1
Ali G: How many words does you know?
Noam Chomsky: Normally, humans, by maturity, have tens of thousands of them.
Ali G: What is some of 'em?
-Da Ali G Show
Did you know that both mammal and matter derive from baby talk? Have you noticed how wince makes you wince? Ever wonder why so many h-words have to do with breath?
Roy Blount Jr. certainly has, and after forty years of making a living using words in every medium, print or electronic, except greeting cards, he still can't get over his ABCs. In Alphabet Juice, he celebrates the electricity, the juju, the sonic and kinetic energies, of letters and their combinations. Blount does not prescribe proper English. The franchise he claims is "over the counter."
Three and a half centuries ago, Thomas Blount produced Blount's Glossographia, the first dictionary to explore derivations of English words. This Blount's Glossographia takes that pursuit to other levels, from Proto-Indo-European roots to your epiglottis. It rejects the standard linguistic notion that the connection between words and their meanings is "arbitrary." Even the word arbitrary is shown to be no more arbitrary, at its root, than go-to guy or crackerjack. From sources as venerable as the OED (in which Blount finds an inconsistency, at whisk) and as fresh as Urbandictionary.com (to which Blount has contributed the number-one definition of alligator arm), and especially from the author's own wide-ranging experience, Alphabet Juice derives an organic take on language that is unlike, and more fun than, any other.
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Focus on Grammar - (AE) - 4th Edition (2017) - Student Book with MyEnglishLab - Level 1
Irene Schoenberg, Jay Maurer
4.1
Building on the success of previous editions, Focus on Grammar, Fifth Edition continues to leverage its successful four-step approach that lets learners move from comprehension to communication within a clear and consistent structure. Centered on thematic instruction, Focus on Grammar combines comprehensive grammar coverage with abundant practice, critical thinking skills, and ongoing assessment, helping students communicate confidently, accurately, and fluently in everyday situations.The Fifth Edition continues to incorporate the findings of corpus linguistics in grammar notes, charts, and practice activities, while never losing sight of what is pedagogically sound and useful.New to This Edition New and updated content showcases culturally relevant topics of interest to modern learners. Updated grammar charts and redesigned grammar notes with clear, corpus-informed grammar explanations reflect real and natural language usage, allowing students to grasp the most important aspects of the grammar. Expanded communicative activities encourage collaboration and application of target grammar in a variety of settings. New unit-ending From Grammar to Writing section allows students to apply grammar in writing through structured tasks from pre-writing to editing. New assessment tools, including course diagnostic tests, formative and summative assessments, and a flexible gradebook, are closely aligned with unit learning outcomes to inform instruction and measure progress. FOG Go app for iPhone® and Android® lets students easily navigate Student Book audio clips on their phone or tablet. Updated for the Fifth Edition, MyEnglishLab: Focus on Grammar offers students engaging practice and video grammar presentations anytime, anywhere with immediate feedback and remediation tasks to help promote accuracy. Other Highlights Scaffolded exercises help learners bridge the gap between identifying grammatical structures and using them with confidence and accuracy. High-interest readings in multiple genres expose students to the form, meaning, and use of grammar in natural contexts. Key vocabulary taught, practiced, and recycled throughout the unit ensures acquisition. Listening tasks give students multiple opportunities to focus on spoken English and develop listening skills. Mapped to the Global Scale of English.
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Practice Makes Perfect: English Grammar for ESL Learners, Third Edition
Ed Swick
4.1
Publisher's Note: Products purchased from Third Party sellers are not guaranteed by the publisher for quality, authenticity, or access to any online entitlements included with the product.
Master grammar with this bestselling workbook for learners of English Practice Makes Perfect: English Grammar for ESL Learners is the go-to guide for clear, precise explanations of all aspects of English grammar. As a beginning learner of English, you might find that grammar concepts can be confusing. To make progress with your English skills, you need guidance through tricky grammar areas. This book will help develop mastery.
The more you practice, the more you become proficient in how you use English. Practice Makes Perfect: English Grammar for ESL Learners It will help increase your confidence in writing and communicating in English by helping you:
● Understand the different rules and elements of grammar ● Build your grammar skills with more than 100 engaging exercises ● Broaden your knowledge with sentence rewrites and creative writing prompts ● Test your overall comprehension with a comprehensive review section
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The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition: Fiftieth Anniversary Printing
Editors of the American Heritage…
4.1
A major revision of the Fifth Edition of The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, the premier resource about words for people who seek to know more and find fresh perspectives. This new printing, which marks the 50th anniversary of the publication of the original American Heritage Dictionary, presents the most up-to-date research about the words in our language in an accessible and elegant design, featuring thousands of revisions, including more than 150 new words and senses.
This is the fiftieth anniversary printing of The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language. This beloved dictionary has become the premier resource for anyone who wants to know precisely what words mean, where they come from, and how to use them effectively. It is renowned for presenting accurate and comprehensible definitions, etymologies based on the latest research, and authoritative usage guidance from the celebrated American Heritage Usage Panel.
The fifth edition of the dictionary, published in 2011, included 10,000 new words and senses, as well as 4,000 new full-color images. This comprehensive update continues the tradition of exhaustive research and thorough review. Thousands of revisions to definitions and etymologies, 150 new words and senses, and new usage advice make this updated printing the most current print dictionary of its size available today.
The American Heritage Dictionary combines clear, precise definitions with useful features that make it easier to choose your words and express yourself clearly. Your words really do define you. Make the most of them with the guidance of this respected work of reference.
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Focus on Grammar 2 with Myenglishlab
Irene Schoenberg
4.1
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50
The Language of the Soul: How the Words You Choose Shape the Life You Live
Mark Nepo
4.1
A poetic treasury of spiritual insight, The Language of the Soul uncovers the original meanings of words to help us remember what it means to be fully aliveFor poet and spiritual teacher Mark Nepo, words have always been more than tools for communication―they are vessels of meaning, portals to the sacred, and medicine for the soul. In The Language of the Soul, Nepo explores the deep, often forgotten roots of 228 words from thirty-one languages and traditions, revealing their original, undiluted power to awaken, connect, and heal. Woven with stories from history, mythology, and the author’s own remarkable life journey, this is a rich and contemplative guide to the spiritual essence of language.Just as rivers and mountains erode over time, so too do the meanings of words. Nepo invites readers to walk beside him along a timeless river of understanding, where ancient expressions are reawakened and everyday language is imbued with depth and resonance. Whether it’s a word like “courage” or “forgive” or a lesser-known gem from Sanskrit, Hebrew, or Chinese, each entry becomes a doorway into timeless wisdom, offering moments of insight, stillness, and transformation.For seekers, artists, caregivers, and lovers of language, The Language of the Soul is both a spiritual lexicon and a personal companion. With the lyrical clarity that has made him one of our most beloved spiritual voices, Nepo reminds us that words, when opened with care and wonder, can carry us back to ourselves―and forward into the world with greater compassion, clarity, and grace.
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Mark Forsyth Collection 3 Books Bundle (The Elements of Eloquence: How To Turn the Perfect English Phrase, The Horologicon, The Etymologicon)
Mark Forsyth
4.1
Mark Forsyth Collection 3 Books Bundle includes titles in this collection :- The Elements of Eloquence: How To Turn the Perfect English Phrase, The Horologicon: A Day's Jaunt Through the Lost Words of the English Language, The Etymologicon: A Circular Stroll Through the Hidden Connections of the English Language. Description:- The Elements of Eloquence: How To Turn the Perfect English Phrase Mark Forsyth presents the secret of writing unforgettable phrases, uncovering the techniques that have made immortal such lines as 'To be or not to be' and 'Bond. James Bond.' In his inimitably entertaining and witty style, he takes apart famous quotations and shows how you too can write like Shakespeare, Oscar Wilde or John Lennon. Crammed with tricks to make the most humdrum sentiments seem poetic or wise, The Elements of Eloquence reveals how writers through the ages have turned humble words into literary gold - and how you can do the same. The Horologicon: A Day's Jaunt Through the Lost Words of the English Language Mark Forsyth presents a delightfully eccentric day in the life of unusual, beautiful and forgotten English words. From uhtceare in the hours before dawn through to dream drumbles at bedtime, The Horologicon gives you the extraordinary lost words you never knew you needed. A Radio 4 Book of the Week, The Horologicon is an eye-opening, page-turning celebration of the English language at its most endearingly arcane. The Etymologicon: A Circular Stroll Through the Hidden Connections of the English Language The Etymologicon is an occasionally ribald, frequently witty and unerringly erudite guided tour of the secret labyrinth that lurks beneath the English language. Mark Forsyth's riotous celebration of the idiosyncratic and sometimes absurd connections between words isa classic of its kind: a mine of fascinating information and a must-read for word-lovers everywhere.
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Workbook for Wheelock's Latin
Paul T. Comeau, Richard A. LaFleur
4.1
WHEELOCK'S LATIN: AUDIO FILES
When Professor Frederic M. Wheelock's Latin first appeared in 1956, the reviews extolled its thoroughness, organization, and conciseness; at least one reviewer predicted that the book "might well become the standard text" for introducing students to elementary Latin. Now, five decades later, that prediction has certainly proved accurate.
Workbook for Wheelock's Latin is an essential companion to the classic introductory textbook. Designed to supplement the course of study in Wheelock's Latin, 6th Edition, Revised, each of the forty chapters in this newly updated edition features:
Transformation drills, word and phrase translations, and other exercises to test and sharpen the student's skills "Word Power" sections that focus on vocabulary and derivatives Reading comprehension questions and sentences for translation practice Perforated pages for hand-in homework assignments and space for the student's name and date
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Practice Makes Perfect: Basic English, Premium Fourth Edition
LACHANCE
4.1
Everything you need to master first-year English language essentials―clear explanations, tons of practice exercises, and NEW audio to improve your speaking and listening skillsThe most effective way to learn any new language is to practice, practice, and practice some more―and no other workbooks put as much emphasis on this as the Practice Makes Perfect series. In Practice Makes Perfect: Basic English, you'll find all the practice you need, presented in easily managed short units (each taking about 20 minutes to complete), along with clear explanations of grammar and a solid grounding in basic vocabulary.Supported by the McGraw Hill Language Lab app, this workbook also offers comprehensive digital support for speaking and listening to conversational English. Extensive audio recordings provide the answer key for select exercises, and will help you build your confidence in speaking and listening to the language. With the instruction, explanations, and extensive practice in this book, you'll gain all the knowledge a first-year student needs to know.Short units with key grammatical concepts and core vocabulary provide easy, bite-size lessons for your busy scheduleComprehensive coverage of verb tenses, irregular verbs, negative and question forms, usage of there is, be going to, and moreEngaging review practice includes word search puzzles and scramble sentence exercisesDesigned specifically for ESL students and ideal for both self-study or to complement a first-year classSupported by 50 pronunciation exercises, available via McGraw Hill’s exclusive Language Lab app, to practice the sounds that learners find difficultNEW in this edition: Audio recordings of select exercises from the book to help with your listening and speaking skills
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The Story of English
Robert McCrum, Robert Macneil, William Cran
4.1
Now revised, The Story of English is the first book to tell the whole story of the English language. Originally paired with a major PBS miniseries, this book presents a stimulating and comprehensive record of spoken and written English—from its Anglo-Saxon origins some two thousand years ago to the present day, when English is the dominant language of commerce and culture with more than one billion English speakers around the world. From Cockney, Scouse, and Scots to Gulla, Singlish, Franglais, and the latest African American slang, this sweeping history of the English language is the essential introduction for anyone who wants to know more about our common tongue.
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Scribblers, Sculptors, and Scribes: A Companion to Wheelock's Latin and Other Introductory Textbooks
Richard A. LaFleur
4.1
A Must-Have Companion for Every Student Beginning Latin
"Scribblers, Scvlptors, and Scribes" is the first collection of entirely authentic, unadapted, unsimplified classical Latin texts that beginning students, from the very first day of their introduction to Latin, can read, enjoy, and profit from. These selections provide a wide range of insights into not just the minds of Rome's movers and shakers-her politicians and generals, philosophers and great poets-but also into the daily lives of the Average Joe and Jane Roman.
Beginning with simple graffiti, "Scribblers, Sculptors, and Scribes" moves toward longer inscriptions and literary texts as students progress. Designed to accompany the bestselling Wheelock's curriculum, its 40 chapters are linked with the 40 chapters of "Wheelock's Latin," but the book's readings and design features make it suitable for use alongside any introductory college or high school Latin textbook. Packed with hundreds of actual Latin inscriptions, proverbs, and literary texts, this unique textbook also includes dozens of photos and illustrations, maps, discussion and comprehension questions, grammar capsules, a Latin-English vocabulary section, a summary of forms, and much more.
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Top Notch 1 3/E Student Book
Joan Saslow
4.1
Renowned for its unique speaking pedagogy, Top Notch is a dynamic communicative course that makes English unforgettable. Goals and achievement-based lessons with "can-do" statements enable students to confirm their progress in every class session. Top Notch builds confidence for successful verbal communication and develops critical thinking skills and reading and listening strategies. Highlights New Conversation Activator and Pronunciation Coach Videos in every unit build conversational competence and accurate pronunciation. New: Full-color digital vocabulary flashcards for varied, enriched, and explicit practice. New: Interactive extra grammar exercises to maximize the quantity of grammar practice in every unit. New: Achievement tests include Speaking and Writing tests for every unit, ensuring a fuller evaluation of progress. Other Highlights Hundreds of supplementary practice activities and exercises ensure teachers never have to supplement the course. Extensive listening comprehension practice. Includes exposure to a variety of authentic regional and non-native accents to prepare students for English in today's world. The Top Notch TV Video program - with hilarious sitcoms and authentic on-the street interviews - builds confidence in understanding natural spoken language. Top Notch Pop songs and karaoke - with accompanying language exercises - make English unforgettable. The expanded MyEnglishLab - with Grammar Coach and Pronunciation Coach Videos, remedial grammar exercises, and immediate feedback on wrong answers - enables programs to tailor Top Notch to the needs of their course. Entire Top Notch course mapped to the Global Scale of English.
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Northstar Listening and Speaking 4 with Interactive Student Book Access Code and Myenglishlab
Kim Sanabria
4.1
The new and improved Listening and Speaking strand now offers an Interactive Student Book powered by MyEnglishLab. The Interactive Student Book allows students and teachers to better assess progress. Teachers can now monitor student performance to personalize learning and increase student motivation. The five-level NorthStar series engages students through a seamless integration of compelling online content and empowers them to achieve their academic and personal goals in order to meet the challenges of the 21st century. - Current and thought-provoking listening selections from a variety of contrasting authentic genres stimulate students intellectually. Authentic content engages students, links them to language use outside the classroom, and encourages critical thinking and personal expression. - Explicit language skills are reinforced and practiced using models from the unit listening selections, while the pronunciation and speaking skill selections expose students to the sounds and patterns of English to prepare them to express their ideas on a higher level. - Productive vocabulary and grammar structures are targeted, reviewed, practiced, and expanded upon for the final speaking task. - Group projects inspire students to inquire further and prepare students to engage in real-world activities. The projects incorporate Internet research, helping students build digital literacy skills. - A variety of online assessments tied to learning outcomes allows teachers to individualize instruction and track student progress. - Teacher Resources in MyEnglishLab include the scope and sequence, digital student book, downloadable achievement tests, classroom audio, audioscripts, video activities, videoscripts, teacher's manual, answer keys, and a downloadable placement test.
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Webster's New Pocket Dictionary
Webster's New College Dictionary
4.1
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Aspire: Discovering Your Purpose Through the Power of Words
Kevin Hall, Stephen R. Covey
4.1
An expert recognized for his uncovering the hidden, and often secret meaning of words, Kevin Hall now shares his wisdom with us all. In Aspire! he teaches readers to understand what words mean in their purest sense and unlock their importance as they develop a thoughtful new vocabulary.
As Stephen R. Covey so beautifully elucidates in his foreword, "this masterfully written book will help you understand that words have an inherent power, a force capable of lighting one′s paths and horizons. Used correctly and positively, words are the first building blocks for success and inner peace. Used incorrectly and negatively, they are capable of undermining even the best of intentions. This is true in business, in personal relationships, and every other walk of life."
By focusing on eleven words-one per chapter--Aspire! shows how to use these words as building blocks for success and inner peace. The words, from the very familiar to the very unusual, will become touchstones in personal development and in business.
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The New Joys of Yiddish: Completely Updated
Leo Rosten
4.1
Enjoy the most comprehensive and hilariously entertaining lexicon of the colorful and deeply expressive language of Yiddish. With the recent renaissance of interest in Yiddish, and in keeping with a language that embodies the variety and vibrancy of life itself, The New Joys of Yiddish brings Leo Rosten’s masterful work up to date. Revised for the first time by Lawrence Bush, in close consultation with Rosten’s daughters, it retains the spirit of the original—with its wonderful jokes, tidbits of cultural history, Talmudic and biblical references—and is enhanced by hundreds of new entries and thoughtful commentary on how Yiddish has evolved over the years, as well as clever illustrations by R. O. Blechman.
Did you know that cockamamy, bluffer, maven, and aha! are all Yiddish words? If you did, you’re a gaon, possessing a lot of seykhl.
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Practice Makes Perfect: Intermediate English Grammar for ESL Learners, Third Edition
Robin Torres-Gouzerh
4.1
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The American Heritage Dictionary of Indo-European Roots
Calvert Watkins
4.1
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63
The Chicago Guide to Grammar, Usage, and Punctuation
Bryan A. Garner
4.1
Few people can write on the English language with the authority of Bryan A. Garner. The author of The Chicago Manual of Style’s popular “Grammar and Usage” chapter, Garner explains the vagaries of English with absolute precision and utmost clarity. With The Chicago Guide to Grammar, Usage, and Punctuation, he has written the definitive guide for writers who want their prose to be both memorable and correct.
Throughout the book Garner describes standard literary English—the forms that mark writers and speakers as educated users of the language. He also offers historical context for understanding the development of these forms. The section on grammar explains how the canonical parts of speech came to be identified, while the section on syntax covers the nuances of sentence patterns as well as both traditional sentence diagramming and transformational grammar. The usage section provides an unprecedented trove of empirical evidence in the form of Google Ngrams, diagrams that illustrate the changing prevalence of specific terms over decades and even centuries of English literature. Garner also treats punctuation and word formation, and concludes the book with an exhaustive glossary of grammatical terms and a bibliography of suggested further reading and references.
The Chicago Guide to Grammar, Usage, and Punctuation is a magisterial work, the culmination of Garner’s lifelong study of the English language. The result is a landmark resource that will offer clear guidelines to students, writers, and editors alike.
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Wheelock's Latin, 7th Edition (The Wheelock's Latin Series)
Frederic M. Wheelock
4.1
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65
English for Everyone: English Vocabulary Builder
DK
4.1
A combined reference book and workbook covering over 3,000 entries of essential words and phrases to expand your English vocabulary.
Designed around the most up-to-date theories of language acquisition, English for Everyone: English Vocabulary Builder includes all the words and phrases English learners need to know. Question words, feelings, hairstyles, technology, seasons, entertainment, sports, and more are covered and illustrated, plus paired with audio in the accompanying app available for download. Readers can write their own translations and work through practice exercises to improve their English language skills. Ideal for ESL learners at all stages, from beginner to advanced.
Series Overview: English for Everyone series teaches all levels of English, from beginner to advanced, to speakers of English as a second language. Innovative visual learning methods introduce key language skills, grammar, and vocabulary, which are reinforced with a variety of speaking, reading, and writing exercises to make the English language easier to understand and learn. Visit www.dkefe.com to find out more.
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Differentiating Instruction and Assessment for English Language Learners: A Guide for K - 12 Teachers
Shelley Fairbairn
4.1
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67
Useless Etymology: Offbeat Word Origins for Curious Minds
Jess Zafarris
4.1
Have you ever considered that an "astronaut" is a "star sailor," or thought about the fact that a thesaurus is quite literally a "treasure trove" of words? Have you ever wondered why English isn't considered a Romance language if more than half of our vocabulary is Latin-derived? Did Shakespeare really invent 1,700 words, and if not, why the heck do we say that he did? Why is the English language stuffed with so many synonyms?Let's be real: English can seem pretty bonkers. And, well, sometimes it is. But through thorough thought and a pinch of curiosity, method can be found within the madness of our modern tongue-even within the disparate pronunciation of the words "through," "thorough," and "thought." English contains multitudes. It has been (and continues to be) transformed by war and conquest, art and literature, science and technology, love and hate, wit and whim. Useless Etymology takes readers on a time-traveling adventure to unlock the beauty, wonder, and absurdity within our everyday words, how they came to be, and the unexpected ways their origins weave a global, cross-cultural labyrinth of meaning.Filled with fun facts and delightful discoveries, this is an enlightening read for anyone who wants to know more about why the English language works the way that it does.
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The Secret Life of Words: How English Became English
Henry Hitchings
4.1
Words are essential to our everyday lives. An average person spends his or her day enveloped in conversations, e-mails, phone calls, text messages, directions, headlines, and more. But how often do we stop to think about the origins of the words we use? Have you ever thought about which words in English have been borrowed from Arabic, Dutch, or Portuguese? Try admiral, landscape, and marmalade, just for starters.
The Secret Life of Words is a wide-ranging account not only of the history of English language and vocabulary, but also of how words witness history, reflect social change, and remind us of our past. Henry Hitchings delves into the insatiable, ever-changing English language and reveals how and why it has absorbed words from more than 350 other languages—many originating from the most unlikely of places, such as shampoo from Hindi and kioskfrom Turkish. From the Norman Conquest to the present day, Hitchings narrates the story of English as a living archive of our human experience. He uncovers the secrets behind everyday words and explores the surprising origins of our most commonplace expressions.
The Secret Life of Words is a rich, lively celebration of the language and vocabulary that we too often take for granted.
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69
The Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT Test, Seventh Edition
Educational Testing Service
4.1
The bestselling guide from the maker of the TOEFL® test―fully updated to reflect recent changes to the testThe Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT® Test is the most complete and reliable guide to the test that is used to meet English-language proficiency requirements at more than 13,000 institutions worldwide. This updated edition reflects the recent (July 2023) changes to the exam. In addition to four full-length practice tests, it includes thorough review sections to walk students through everything they need to know to succeed on every section of the exam.Students will learn how to construct effective answers and how to integrate speaking, listening, and writing skills. The accompanying digital tests mimic what students will see on test day and are accessible for students with disabilities.The Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT® Test features:• 4 full-length practice TOEFL tests • Hundreds of authentic TOEFL test questions and essay topics • Test-taking strategies from the actual test maker• Answer keys, self-scoring guides, and moreEducational Testing Service (ETS) is a private, nonprofit organization devoted to educational measurement and research, primarily through testing. Founded in 1947, ETS develops, administers, and scores more than 50 million tests annually―including the TOEFL® and TOEIC® tests, the GRE® tests, and the Praxis® assessments―in more than 180 countries, at over 13,000 locations worldwide.
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Advanced Grammar in Use Book with Answers and Interactive eBook: A Self-study Reference and Practice Book for Advanced Learners of English
Martin Hewings
4.1
NA
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71
Expletive Deleted: A Good Look at Bad Language
Ruth Wajnryb
4.1
Have we always "sworn like sailors"? Has creative cursing developed because we can't just slug people when they make us angry? And if such verbal aggression is universal, why is it that some languages (Japanese, for instance) supposedly do not contain any nasty words? Throughout the twentieth century there seems to have been a dramatic escalation in the use and acceptance of offensive language in English, both verbally and in print. Today it seems almost commonplace to hear the "f" word in casual conversation, and even on television. Just how have we become such a bunch of cursers and what does it tell us about our language and ourselves?
In Expletive Deleted, linguist Ruth Wajnryb offers an entertaining yet thoroughly researched, lighthearted look at this development, seeking to reveal the etymologies of various terms and discover how what was once considered unfit-for-company argot has become standard fare. Wajnryb steps outside the confines of English in her search for answers, exploring whether offensive words in English are mirrored in other languages and examining cultural differences in the usage of dirty words. For instance, why is it that in some languages you can get away with intimating that a person and his camel are more than just good friends, while pouring scorn on a mother's morals guarantees you a seat on the next flight out?
An amusing and idiosyncratic look at the power of words to shock, offend, insult, amuse, exaggerate, let off steam, establish relationships, and communicate deep-felt emotions, Expletive Deleted is a must-read for anyone who loves language -- or has ever stubbed a toe.
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Dictionary of Latin and Greek Origins: A Comprehensive Guide to the Classical Origins of English Words
Bob & Maxine Moore Moore
4.1
Many English words are based on Latin and Greek roots. These ancient root words are dependable and unchanging and serve as the key to understanding not only the vocabulary of English but many of the modern European languages as well. An understanding of the core meaning can provide a tool for unlocking the meaning of the thousands of Latin and Greek-based words. Eminently readable, this book will sustain the interest of both browsers and serious students.
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Top Notch: English for Today's World
Allen Ascher and Joan Saslow
4.1
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74
Oxford Dictionary of Word Origins
Julia Cresswell
4.0
Combining both accessibility and authority, The Oxford Dictionary of Word Origins describes the origins and development of over 3,000 words and phrases in the English language. The book draws on Oxford's unrivalled dictionary research program and language monitoring, and relates the fascinating stories behind many of our most curious terms and expressions in order to offer the reader a much more detailed explanation than can be found in a general English dictionary. Organized A-Z, the entries include first known use along with examples that illustrate the many faces of the particular word or phrase, from 'handsome' to 'bachelor' and 'cute' to 'baby', from 'pagan' to 'palaver' and 'toff' to 'torpedo'. Also featured are almost 20 special panels that cover expressions common in English but drawn from other languages, such as 'coffee', 'sugar', and 'candy' from Arabic or 'booze', 'brandy', and 'gin' (Dutch). This absorbing volume is useful for language students and enthusiasts, but also an intriguing read for any person interested in the development of the English language and of language development in general. It also includes an extended introduction on the history of the English language.
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75
A Writer's Reference
Diana Hacker
4.0
Integrated MLA 2003 update
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76
Words and Rules: The Ingredients of Language
Steven Pinker
4.0
In Words and Rules, Steven Pinker explains the mysteries of language by examining a single construction from a dozen viewpoints, proposing that the essence of language is a mental dictionary of memorized words, and a mental grammar of creative rules.
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77
Word Origins
John Ayto
4.0
The average contemporary English speaker knows 50,000 words. Yet stripped down to its origins, this apparently huge vocabulary is in reality much smaller, derived from Latin, French and the Germanic languages. It is estimated that every year, 800 neologisms are added to the English language: acronyms (nimby), blended words (motel), and those taken from foreign languages (savoir-faire). Laid out in an A-Z format with detailed cross references, and written in a style that is both authoritative and accessible, Word Origins is a valuable historical guide to the English language.
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78
Origins of the Specious: Myths and Misconceptions of the English Language
Patricia T. O'Conner, Stewart Kellerman
4.0
In Origins of the Specious, word mavens Patricia T. O'Conner and Stewart Kellerman explode the misconceptions that have led generations of language lovers astray. They reveal why some of grammar's best-known "rules" aren't--and never were--rules at all. They explain how Brits and Yanks wound up speaking the same language so differently, and why British English isn't necessarily purer. This playfully witty yet rigorously researched book sets the record straight about bogus word origins, politically correct fictions, phony français, fake acronyms, and more. English is an endlessly entertaining, ever-changing language, and yesterday's blooper could be tomorrow's bon mot--or vice versa!
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79
Q: Skills for Success 2e Reading and Writing Level 3 Student Book
Colin S. Ward and Margot F. Gramer
4.0
This series that helps students to think critically and succeed academically. With new note-taking skills, an extended writing syllabus and authentic video in every unit, this book equips students for academic success better than ever. This book helps students to measure their progress, with clearly stated unit objectives that motivate students to achieve their language learning goals. Seamlessly integrated online content allows teachers to truly implement blended learning into the classroom.
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80
Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Curious Origins of Everyday Sayings and Fun Phrases
Andrew Thompson
4.0
The Curious Origins of Everyday Sayings and Fun Phrases
Over 400 intriguing, entertaining, and often hilarious etymological journey English is filled with curious, intriguing and bizarre phrases.
This book reveals the surprising, captivating and even hilarious origins behind 400 of them, including: "Read between the Lines", "Cat Got Your Tongue?", "Put a Sock in It", "Close, but No Cigar", "Bring Home the Bacon", "Caught Red-Handed", "Under the Weather", Raining Cats and Dogs".
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81
The Infographic Guide to Grammar: A Visual Reference for Everything You Need to Know (Infographic Guide Series)
Jara Kern
4.0
Mastering grammar is now easier than ever with this fully illustrated guide that covers the most important rules in grammar and punctuation—making even the most confusing rules easy to understand. This illustrated guide to English grammar gives you everything you need for a better understanding of how to write and punctuate correctly. From proper comma usage to the correct form of there, their, or they’re—understanding grammar has never been easier. Is it who or whom? Affect or effect? And what is a prepositional phrase? With The Infographic Guide to Grammar,you’ll learn the answers to all of these questions, and so much more. Filled with colorful, easy-to-understand entries, this book includes topics like: –Basic sentence structure –The parts of speech –Common mistakes and how to avoid them Featuring 50 vibrant infographics explaining everything from subject-verb agreement to the Oxford comma and verb tenses this book breaks down the complicated rules and guidelines for writing the English language and makes them clear and straightforward.
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82
The Ring of Words: Tolkien and the Oxford English Dictionary
Peter Gilliver, Jeremy Marshall, Edmund Weiner
4.0
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83
Origins: A Short Etymological Dictionary of Modern English
Eric Partridge
4.0
This etymological dictionary gives the origins of some 20,000 items from the modern English vocabulary, discussing them in groups that make clear the connections between words derived by a variety of routes from originally common stock. As well as giving the answers to questions about the derivation of individual words, it's a fascinating book to browse thru, & includes extensive lists of prefixes, suffixes & elements used in the creation of new vocabulary.
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84
Rebel with a Clause: Tales and Tips from a Roving Grammarian
Ellen Jovin
4.0
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85
Woe Is I: The Grammarphobe's Guide to Better English in Plain English
Patricia T. O'Conner
4.0
A revised and updated edition of the iconic grammar guide for the 21st century.
In this expanded and updated edition of Woe Is I, former editor at The New York Times Book Review Patricia T. O'Conner unties the knottiest grammar tangles with the same insight and humor that have charmed and enlightened readers of previous editions for years. With fresh insights into the rights, wrongs, and maybes of English grammar and usage, O'Conner offers in Woe Is I down-to-earth explanations and plain-English solutions to the language mysteries that bedevil all of us.
"Books about English grammar and usage are... never content with the status quo," O'Conner writes. "That's because English is not a stay-put language. It's always changing--expanding here, shrinking there, trying on new things, casting off old ones... Time doesn't stand still and neither does language."
In this fourth edition, O'Conner explains how the usage of an array of words has evolved. For example, the once-shunned "they," "them," and "their" for an unknown somebody is now acceptable. And the battle between "who" and "whom" has just about been won, O'Conner says (hint: It wasn't by "whom"). Then there's the use of "taller than me" in simple comparisons, instead of the ramrod-stiff "taller than I." "May" and "might," "use to" and "used to," abbreviations that use periods and those that don't, and the evolving definition of "unique" are all explained here by O'Conner. The result is an engaging, up-to-date and jargon-free guide to every reader's questions about grammar, style, and usage for the 21st century.
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86
The Power of Babel: A Natural History of Language
John McWhorter
4.0
There are approximately six thousand languages on Earth today, each a descendant of the tongue first spoken by Homo sapiens some 150,000 years ago. While laying out how languages mix and mutate over time, linguistics professor John McWhorter reminds us of the variety within the species that speaks them, and argues that, contrary to popular perception, language is not immutable and hidebound, but a living, dynamic entity that adapts itself to an ever-changing human environment.
Full of humor and imaginative insight, The Power of Babel draws its illustrative examples from languages around the world, including pidgins, Creoles, and nonstandard dialects.
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87
Putting CLIL Into Practice
Phil Ball
4.0
Putting CLIL into Practice offers a new methodological framework for the CLIL classroom, focusing on how to guide input and support output. Full of real-life examples and practical guidelines, the book provides support to both novice and experienced CLIL teachers.
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88
Understanding and Using English Grammar
Betty Schrampfer Azar
4.0
A classic developmental skills text for intermediate to advanced students of English, Understanding and Using English Grammar is a comprehensive reference grammar as well as a stimulating and teachable classroom text. While keeping the same basic approach and material as in earlier editions, the Third Edition more fully develops communicative and interactive language-learning activities. Some of the new features are: *Numerous real communication opportunities *More options for interactive work in pairs and groups *Additional open-ended communicative tasks for both speaking and writing *Expanded error analysis exercises *Interesting and lively new exercise material *Shorter units for easy class use The program components include the Student Book, Workbook, Chartbook, Teacher's Guide, and Companion Website. Also available: Understanding and Using English Grammar Interactive (a multimedia CD-ROM).
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89
Studies in Etymology, 2nd Edition
Charles W. Dunmore and Rita Fleischer
4.0
Studies in Etymology is a textbook for a course or self study in building vocabulary through an understanding of Latin and Greek roots and the grammar of word formation. The first half of the book is devoted to Latin roots and word formation through the influence of Latin grammar and language development. The second half of the book deals with Greek, the nuances of Greek grammar and syntax, as well as the influences of such things as Greek mythology on the creation of words in English. A special section is devoted to science and medicine.
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90
Anguished English: An Anthology of Accidental Assaults Upon Our Language
Richard Lederer
4.0
From bloopers and blunders to Signs of the Times to Mixed Up Metaphors...from Two-Headed Headlines to Mangling Modifiers, Anguished English is a treasury of assaults upon our common language.
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91
The Perfect English Grammar Workbook: Simple Rules and Quizzes to Master Today's English
Lisa McLendon
4.0
The Easiest-to-Use, Most Up-to-Date Grammar Workbook for Improving Your Daily Communication
The English language is expansive and complex. The rules are always changing, and grammar advice from a century or even a few years ago may not apply today. If you want to communicate with clarity and credibility if you want people to focus on what you re saying, rather than how you re saying it then you need to use excellent grammar.
Editor, linguistic expert, and self-proclaimed grammar cheerleader Lisa McLendon has spent her career finding ways to use language effectively and correctly. Lisa knows that the primary reason people are uneasy about writing and public speaking is because they aren t confident in their grammar skills. With The Perfect English Grammar Workbook Lisa has developed a simple, well-organized grammar workbook that demystifies English grammar so you can use it with confidence and accuracy.
In The Perfect English Grammar Workbook you ll find:
EASY-TO-FOLLOW LESSONS organized by how we naturally learn simple instructions followed by self-directed quizzes RELEVANT, ENGAGING EXAMPLES that demonstrate grammar rules with wit, humor, and contemporary appeal RECENT, UP-TO-DATE RULES based on the English language we use today A WIDE VARIETY OF EXERCISES that make learning fun HELPFUL FEATURES FOR CLASSROOM USE including standalone answer keys for easy photocopying and color-coded pages for quick navigation Finding the best grammar workbook can be difficult. But The Perfect English Grammar Workbook provides everything you need to master the rules of grammar with ease and enjoyment.
The Perfect English Grammar Workbook covers all English grammar rules including: Composition • Parts of Speech • Sentence Structure • Verbs • Determiners • Nouns • Adjectives • Prepositions • Conjunctions • Punctuation • and more.
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92
The Oxford Guide to Etymology
Philip Durkin
4.0
This practical introduction to word history investigates every aspect of where words come from and how they change. Philip Durkin, chief etymologist of the Oxford English Dictionary, shows how different types of evidence can shed light on the myriad ways in which words change in form and meaning. He considers how such changes can be part of wider linguistic processes, or be influenced by a complex mixture of social and cultural factors. He illustrates every point with a wide range of fascinating examples. Dr. Durkin investigates folk etymology and other changes which words undergo in everyday use. He shows how language families are established, how words in different languages can have a common ancester, and the ways in which the latter can be distinguished from words introduced through language contact. He examines the etymologies of the names of people and places. His focus is on English but he draws many examples from languages such as French, German, and Latin which cast light on the pre-histories of English words. The Oxford Guide to Etymology is reliable, readable, instructive, and enjoyable. Everyone interested in the history of words will value this account of an endlessly fascinating subject.
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93
World Class 2 Student Book: Expanding English Fluency
Nancy Douglas and James R. Morgan
4.0
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94
Q: Skills for Success Listening and Speaking 2e Level 5 Student Book
Susan Earle-Carlin
4.0
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95
Touchstone Level 2 Student's Book
Michael McCarthy, Jeanne McCarten, et al.
4.0
Touchstone, together with Viewpoint, is a six-level English program based on research from the Cambridge English Corpus. Touchstone uses a corpus-informed syllabus ensuring students are learning the language that people really use. Activities include a strong focus on inductive learning, personalized practice, and encouraging learner autonomy. Each Student's Book contains approximately 90 hours of material across 12 topic-based units - with additional grammar and pronunciation practice added for the Second Edition. Student's Book, Level 2 is at the high beginning CEFR level (A1-A2).
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96
Motherfoclóir: Dispatches from a Not So Dead Language
Darach O'Séaghdha
4.0
'Motherfoclóir' [focloir means 'dictionary' and is pronounced like a rather more vulgar English epithet] is a book based on the popular Twitter account @theirishfor.
As the title suggests, 'Motherfoclóir' takes an irreverent, pun-friendly and contemporary approach to the Irish language. The translations are expanded on and arranged into broad categories that allow interesting connections to be made, and sprinkled with anecdotes and observations about Irish and Ireland itself, as well as language in general. The author includes stories about his own relationship with Irish, and how it fits in with the most important events in his life.
This is a book for all lovers of the quirks of language.
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97
The Concise Dictionary of English Etymology
Walter W. Skeat
4.0
The pioneering work on the roots & origins of the English language. The remarkable scholarship of Walter W. Skeat (1835-1912) was instrumental in the revival of the great works of early English literature, & he inspired later philologists & lexicographers. Skeat's astonishing detective work into the origins & development of the worlds most widely used language provides an unsurpassed guide to its flexibility & richness. This edition of his larger Etymological Dictionary is not a mere abridgment, but was entirely rewritten by Skeat.
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98
Between You & Me: Confessions of a Comma Queen
Mary Norris
4.0
Mary Norris has spent more than three decades in The New Yorker's copy department, maintaining its celebrated high standards. Now she brings her vast experience, good cheer, and finely sharpened pencils to help the rest of us in a boisterous language book as full of life as it is of practical advice.
Between You & Me features Norris's laugh-out-loud descriptions of some of the most common and vexing problems in spelling, punctuation, and usage—comma faults, danglers, "who" vs. "whom," "that" vs. "which," compound words, gender-neutral language—and her clear explanations of how to handle them. Down-to-earth and always open-minded, she draws on examples from Charles Dickens, Emily Dickinson, Henry James, and the Lord's Prayer, as well as from The Honeymooners, The Simpsons, David Foster Wallace, and Gillian Flynn. She takes us to see a copy of Noah Webster's groundbreaking Blue-Back Speller, on a quest to find out who put the hyphen in Moby-Dick, on a pilgrimage to the world's only pencil-sharpener museum, and inside the hallowed halls of The New Yorker and her work with such celebrated writers as Pauline Kael, Philip Roth, and George Saunders.
Readers—and writers—will find in Norris neither a scold nor a softie but a wise and witty new friend in love with language and alive to the glories of its use in America, even in the age of autocorrect and spell-check. As Norris writes, "The dictionary is a wonderful thing, but you can't let it push you around."
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99
The F-Word
Jesse Sheidlower, Lewis Black
4.0
We all know what frak, popularized by television's cult hit Battlestar Galactica, really means. But what about feck? Or ferkin? Or foul--as in FUBAR, or "Fouled Up Beyond All Recognition"?
In a thoroughly updated edition of The F-Word, Jesse Sheidlower offers a rich, revealing look at the f-bomb and its illimitable uses. Since the fifteenth century, no other word has been adapted, interpreted, euphemized, censored, and shouted with as much ardor or force; imagine Dick Cheney telling Democratic Senator Patrick Leahy to "go damn himself" on the Senate floor--it doesn't have quite the same impact as what was really said. Sheidlower cites this and other notorious examples throughout history, from the satiric sixteenth-century poetry of James Cranstoun to the bawdy parodies of Lord Rochester in the seventeenth century, to more recent uses by Ernest Hemingway, Jack Kerouac, Ann Sexton, Norman Mailer, Liz Phair, Anthony Bourdain, Junot Diaz, Jenna Jameson, Amy Winehouse, Jon Stewart, and Bono (whose use of the word at the Grammys nearly got him fined by the FCC).
Collectively, these references and the more than one hundred new entries they illustrate double the size of The F-Word since its previous edition. Thousands of added quotations come from newly available electronic databases and the resources of the OED, expanding the range of quotations to cover British, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand, Irish, and South African uses in addition to American ones. Thus we learn why a fugly must hone his or her sense of humor, why Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau muttered "fuddle duddle" in the Commons, and why Fanny Adams is so sweet. A fascinating introductory essay explores the word's history, reputation, and changing popularity over time. and a new Foreword by comedian, actor, and author Lewis Black offers readers a smart and entertaining take on the book and its subject matter.
Oxford dictionaries have won renown for their expansive, historical approach to words and their etymologies. The F-Word offers all that and more in an entertaining and informative look at a word that, while now largely accepted as an integral part of the English language, still confounds, provokes, and scandalizes.
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Recommended by Jonathon Green and Melissa Mohr.
Jonathon Green
Everybody should look at this and see how lexicography should be done, because it is a superb piece of work. It’s not a grubby book, or a meretricious book, it’s an amazing piece of scholarship. [source]
Melissa Mohr
This is a great one for showcasing the variety of swearing and all the circumstances you can use this one word. It starts with absofuckinglutely and ends with zipless fuck, and in the middle has dumbfuck, frig, unfuckable—so many great words. He’s done this excellent research, so you can see the dates when they were all first used, with quotes. [source]
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100
Bioscientific Terminology: Words from Latin and Greek Stems
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