Origins of the specious: the myths and misconceptions of the English language

A delightfully witty and informative book for fans of Patricia T. O'Conner's previous bestseller Woe Is I and other popular books on language, like Eats, Shoots & Leaves and The Elements of Style. Do the British really speak better English than Americans do? Why don't French women...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: O'Conner, Patricia T. (Author)
Format: Book
Language:English
Published: New York Random House 2009
Edition:1. ed.
Subjects:
Summary:A delightfully witty and informative book for fans of Patricia T. O'Conner's previous bestseller Woe Is I and other popular books on language, like Eats, Shoots & Leaves and The Elements of Style. Do the British really speak better English than Americans do? Why don't French women wear brassieres? Does ain't deserve its bad rep? Should niche rhyme with quiche? Not so fast--the answers may surprise you! In this fascinating book, the authors cover the whole nine yards (another source of lore!) and debunk myths that have bamboozled word-loving fans of their popular blog, books, and broadcasts. Prepare to change your mind about where words come from and where they're going. Yesterday's blooper could be tomorrow's bon mot. Here's a delightful primer on the eccentricities of the ever-changing, endlessly entertaining English language.
Item Description:Includes bibliographical references and index
Physical Description:266 S.
ISBN:9781400066605

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