The American Way of Spelling: The Structure and Origins of American English Orthography

by Richard L. Venezky

Book Overview

Can ghoti really be pronounced fish? Why is "o" short in glove and love, but long in rove and cove? Why do English words carry such extra baggage as the silent "b" in doubt, the silent "k" in knee, and the silent "n" in autumn? And why do names like Phabulous Phoods and Hi-Ener-G stand out? Addressing these and many other questions about letters and the sounds they make, this engaging volume provides a comprehensive analysis of American English spelling...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1572304693
• ISBN13: 9781572304697
• Release Date: July 1999
• Publisher: Guilford Publications
• Length: 288 Pages
• Weight: 0.55 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.3" x 9.4"