The Secret Life of the English Language by Martin H. Manser

Buttering Parsnips, Twocking Chavs

271 pages, Paperback

198 x 128 x 19mm (L x W x T)

Condition: Very Good (Has very small/minor signs of wear). There no markings, inscriptions or signatures of any kind, pages are clean and vibrant.

Genres: Language / Nonfiction / Linguistics / Writing

This book delves into the fascinating world of language, exploring the commonalities and distinctions between expressions like the centuries-old "fine words butter no parsnips" and more recent additions to British slang such as "twocking" and "chav." It examines the processes of word formation and proliferation, investigating how new words and phrases emerge and achieve widespread usage. The book also considers the impact of errors and humor on a word's evolution, as well as the reasons behind linguistic obsolescence. Drawing on examples from diverse sources, including Shakespearean texts and contemporary text messaging, this collection offers a browsable and engaging exploration of language, rich in amusing quotations, unusual anecdotes, and clever wordplay.