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Practical English Usage, 4th Edition Paperback: Michael Swan's Guide to Problems in English

by Michael Swan

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A searchable reference for recurring English grammar and vocabulary questions

$57.11 USD
$57.11 USD $57.11 USD

Paperback New English

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AlbakiReads Editorial

A searchable reference for recurring English grammar and vocabulary questions

Michael Swan’s fourth edition is structured as a practical desk reference rather than a linear course. Its two-part arrangement separates learner grammar from vocabulary issues, with more than 600 entries designed to address commonly troublesome points. Grammar coverage includes tenses, conditionals, articles, singular they, speech, and formal writing; the vocabulary section addresses word formation, spelling, word choice, idiom, and frequent confusions. The guide also brings together British–American differences, email language, politeness, potentially offensive language, and lists of common learner mistakes. Available in print and organized for online use, it emphasizes quick access to specific questions about how English is used.

Good fit for readers who enjoy

  • Advanced English learners seeking clarification on specific usage questions
  • English teachers and trainee teachers needing a classroom reference
  • Users comparing grammar, vocabulary, style, and British–American usage

Themes

English grammarVocabulary and word choiceCommon learner errorsBritish and American EnglishStyle, politeness, and formal usage

Based on publisher information and book metadata.

Book overview

Practical English Usage is recommended for any teacher, trainee teacher, or advanced-level student looking for answers to questions about the English language. The material is now organised in two parts (grammar and vocabulary), making it easier than ever to find the answers, either online or in print.

Part 1 is a complete practical learner's grammar with 28 sections, covering all the structural points that cause problems for learners.

Part 2 is a guide to vocabulary problems covering:
- rules for word formation and spelling
- a survey of high-priority vocabulary areas
- an A-Z guide to over 250 common word problems

The 600+ entries provide answers to the questions that learners typically ask, for example:
- use of tenses
- the truth about conditionals
- article problems
- singular they
- get as a passive auxiliary
- bring or take?
- can, could, may or might?
- classic or classical?
- the language of emails
- rules for word formation and spelling

Plus:
- the grammar of speech and formal writing
- British-American differences
- questions of style and idiom
- changes in English
- politeness
- avoiding offensive language
- a survey of high-priority vocabulary areas
- a guide to over 250 common vocabulary problems
- lists of learners' most common mistakes
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