Words We Use (Language Library)

This is fascinating study of the growth and development of our vocabulary, with its foundations in Anglo-Saxon, and its gradual enrichment down the ages from the other great languages of Western civilization: Greek and Latin; Scandinavian and Dutch; French, Italian, and Spanish. The Word We Use has been generally recognized as the most comprehensive and authoritative work now available on this subject. A work of profound erudition. it is nevertheless highly entertaining and readable. Dr. John Sheard (1906-1968) Reader in English Philology in the University of London at King's College, was greatly respected and admired by many generations of students. "An important addition to our history of words." Sir Ernest Gowers, The Sunday Times. Those who are interested in English diction cannot fail to find Dr. Sheard's new study of the growth of our language fascinating from beginning to end" The Observer (from the dust jacket's flap of this book)