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

Mcwhorter, John; McWhorter, Ph.D., John

ISBN 10: 0738204463 / ISBN 13: 9780738204468

Published by Basic Books, 2001

About this Item

Book is in very good condition and may include minimal underlining highlighting. The book can also include "From the library of" labels. May not contain miscellaneous items toys, dvds, etc. . We offer 100% money back guarantee and 24 7 customer service.

Seller Inventory # ZEV.0738204463.VG

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Word on the Street: Debunking the Myth of "Pure" Standard English
• Publisher: Basic Books
• Publication Date: 2001
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0738204463
• ISBN 13: 9780738204468
• Binding: Soft cover
• Condition: very_good

About this title

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 humor, McWhorter ultimately explains why we must embrace these changes, ultimately revealing our American English in all its variety, expressiveness, and power.

About the Author

John McWhorter is Assistant Professor of Linguistics at the University of California at Berkeley. A specialist in pidgin and Creole languages, he lives in Oakland, California.