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Excerpt from A New and Comprehensive Dictionary of the English Language, as Spoken and Written Guided by these views, and so far as the space allows, the language is' here treated of in reference to its spoken as well as its written characteristics, equally as it is exemplified by the news paper and by the classic authority, and with more particular con sideration of the require rather than of scholars. This work the English language as spoken and written, with the most copious vocabulary yet produced, and with the meanings given in words of English or anglo-saxon root, rather than of Greek or Latin, as more likely to be understood by working-men and by children. It is intended, too, to be a work for Englishmen in the widest meaning; not one which like that of Johnson shall limit itself to the pro vincial institutions of England, or, like that of Webster, be called an American dictionary, but one which can be used either in these islands, in the United States, or Australia. Great as is the merit of Webster's book, it is to be regretted that it has a sectional character, whereby an inducement is held out to reproduce J ohn son's edition, or to compile a dictionary for England, which is now dependent for its best work of reference on this provincial dic tionary of the New England writer. The motive which inspired him was a worthy one, that of vindicating American objects, but it would have been better had he compiled an English instead of an American, dictionary. About the Publisher Forgotten Books publishes hundreds of thousands of rare and classic books. Find more at www.forgottenbooks.com This book is a reproduction of an important historical work. Forgotten Books uses state-of-the-art technology to digitally reconstruct the work, preserving the original format whilst repairing imperfections present in the aged copy. In rare cases, an imperfection in the original, such as a blemish or missing page, may be replicated in our edition. We do, however, repair the vast majority of imperfections successfully; any imperfections that remain are intentionally left to preserve the state of such historical works.

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This accessible text is split into 2 halves. Initially, Janet Townend takes the reader through the early development and the structure and usage of spoken English. In the second half Jean Walker explains the history and structure of written English, including word formation and grammar. It is unusual to find both aspects of this fascinating area of human activity combined in one volume. These insights form an essential foundation for teachers, student teachers, teacher trainers, and specialists in special needs and literacy. It will be of interest to all who speak and write, and are involved in helping others to do so. Janet Townend trained as a speech and language therapist and Jean Walker as an English teacher. Both are now specialist teachers and trainers in the field of dyslexia, literacy and language.