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Quote by Bill Bryson

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The Mother Tongue

This book delves into the intricacies of the English language, examining its origins, evolution, and peculiarities. The author provides insights into the structure and usage of English, highlighting its distinctive features and the impact of its diverse influences. more

Author

Bill Bryson
Bill Bryson

Bill Bryson, born on December 8, 1951, is a British author known for his humorous and knowledgeable writing. His works span across various fields, including travel literature, natural history, and science popularization. more

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“English grammar is so complex and confusing for the one very simple reason that its rules and terminology are based on Latin - a language with which it has precious little in common. In Latin, to take one example, it is not possible to split an infinitive. So in English, the early authorities decided, it should not be possible to split an infinitive either. But there is no reason why we shouldn't, any more than we should forsake instant coffee and air travel because they weren't available to the Romans.”

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Author:Bill Bryson
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“For most of us the rules of English grammar are at best a dimly remembered thing. But even for those who make the rules, grammatical correctitude sometimes proves easier to urge than to achieve. Among the errors cited in this book are a number committed by some of the leading authorities of this century. If men such as Fowler and Bernstein and Quirk and Howard cannot always get their English right, is it reasonable to expect the rest of us to?”

IfsMenWritingBookSometimesNumbersAchieveCenturyEasierProveAuthorityErrorsCommittedRememberedReasonableUrgesGrammarQuirksEnglish Grammar
Author:Bill Bryson
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