Word on the Street: Debunking the Myth of a Pure Standard English

Word on the Street: Debunking the Myth of a Pure Standard English

Paperback (25 Jan 2001)

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Publisher's Synopsis

Though there is a contingent of linguists who fight the fact, our language is always changing- not only through slang, but sound, syntax, and words' meanings as well. Debunking the myth of "pure" standard English, tackling controversial positions, and eschewing politically correct arguments, linguist John McWhorter considers speech patterns and regional accents to demonstrate just how the changes do occur. Wielding reason and humour, McWhorter ultimately explains why we must embrace these changes, ultimately revealing our American English in all its variety, expressiveness, and power.

Book information

ISBN: 9780738204468
Publisher: Little, Brown
Imprint: Basic Books
Pub date:
DEWEY: 427.973
DEWEY edition: 21
Language: English
Number of pages: 294
Weight: 470g
Height: 227mm
Width: 166mm
Spine width: 19mm