Abstract
Abstract
Chapter 4 follows the evolution of grammatical structures from colonial English to modern times, and describes some of the major differences between British and American English. It talks about typically American usages that have roots in the English of earlier centuries, for example, the various forms of plural you (y’all, you’uns). In addition, it examines common vernacular and evolving features such as changing verb forms and multiple modals like might could. A final section considers the role of grammar books in shaping how Americans use and think about the language.
Publisher
Oxford University PressNew York
Reference215 articles.
1. The Preterite and Past Participle of Strong Verbs in Seventeenth-Century American English.;American Speech,1957
2. Verbal Endings in Seventeenth-Century America English.;American Speech,1958