The Columbia Guide to Standard American English

Provides a comprehensive overview of spoken and written English, covering word choice, meanings, pronunciation, spelling, grammar, idiomatic expressions, and guidelines for nonsexist usage

An advocate of "linguistic good manners," Wilson (a consultant for The Standard College Dictionary ) has produced a guide of more than 6500 entries, arranged alphabetically, focusing on American (as opposed to British or Canadian) English. Since many appropriate uses of language depend on the context, Wilson diagrams five levels of speech and three levels of writing, ranging from most informal to most formal, and refers to them in many of his explications. He clearly explains the fine distinctions in words often used interchangeably, such as flout and flaunt or infer and imply. Additionally, Wilson suggests what to do about sexist language, what is construed as an ethnic slur, and when a split infinitive is acceptable. Recommended for writers, speakers, editors, and all language lovers.
- Cathy Sabol, Northern Virginia Community Coll., Manassas
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