The Cambridge Grammar of the English Language
Although the title may suggest that this is a usage manual or style guide, it is actually a reference work that, in the authors' words, aims to "outline and illustrate the principles that govern the construction of words and sentences...without recommending or condemning particular usage choices." With help from an impressive group of international scholars, linguistics professors Huddleston (English Grammar: An Outline) and Pullum (Phonetic Symbol Guide) here provide a comprehensive and detailed look at the principles of the English language. Chapters are divided into several subsections, with ample examples and explanations for each concept; both a conceptual and a lexical index are included. Although the writers attempt to "bridge a gap...between traditional grammar and the partial descriptions of English grammar proposed by those working in the field of linguistics," the book leans heavily toward the field of linguistics. This makes it more accessible to the informed student of linguistics than to the simple lover of the English language. It is nevertheless an authoritative addition to the fields of both English grammar and linguistics. Recommended for all academic libraries.Manya S. Chylinski, Ernst & Young Ctr. for Business, BostonCopyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.