Between You and I: A Little Book of Bad English

From Publishers Weekly
Is it possible to "diagnose with a disease" (as in "She was diagnosed with cancer") or, for that matter, to receive a "free gift"? No on both counts, says Cochrane, another Brit with a sincere regard for the English language and a strong desire to correct those who mangle it. This brief, anecdotal, A-Z reference of common grammatical crimes covers mispronunciations, misuses, clichés and more. Though Cochrane welcomes the evolution of the English language, admitting change is inevitable, he argues that the preservation of the historical significance and origins of language is necessary in the formal and written word. Cochrane places blame for its consistent misuse on all individuals claiming to be educated. "Almost invariably the examples come from people who ought to know better...journalists on the 'quality' newspapers, politicians, public figures of all kinds, and, sadly, many teachers," he writes. Besides serving as a handy desktop reference, Cochrane's book, with its detailed descriptions and discrete wit, is sure to leave any reader, and even the most confident writers, with a greater appreciation of the English language. Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Book Description
In the spirit of the bestselling Eats, Shoots & Leaves, this is an informative and highly amusing little book about bad English, full of examples of the incorrect grammar and usage that often pervades modern radio broadcasts, newspaper articles, classroom discussions and political speeches. As the author explains, he does not take issue with the so-called "educated or uneducated" uses of the English language. Between You and I is more concerned with the particular form of English debasement we now have, which might be called the "half-educated" uses of language. Readers may be surprised to find that much of what they thought was "bad" English is in fact perfectly good, and that what they have learned to think of as "good" English is sometimes ignorant, dishonest or just plain stupid.

About the Author
James Cochrane was educated at Cambridge University, UK. He has worked in publishing since joining Penguin Books UK as an editor in 1961. His previous books include Stipple, Wink and Gusset and the Chambers Dictionary Game Dictionary.


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Author Biography: James Cochrane was educated at Cambridge University, UK. He has worked in publishing since joining Penguin Books UK as an editor in 1961. His previous books include Stipple, Wink and Gusset and the Chambers Dictionary Game Dictionary.


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