Slips of Speech : a Helpful Book for Everyone Who Aspires to Correct the Everyday Errors of Speaking   By: John Hendricks Bechtel (1841-)

In "Slips of Speech: A Helpful Book for Everyone Who Aspires to Correct the Everyday Errors of Speaking," authored by John Hendricks Bechtel, readers are presented with an insightful and informative guide to improving their everyday speech. With an emphasis on identifying and rectifying common language mistakes, Bechtel's book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to refine their communication skills.

The book is divided into distinct sections, each focused on a specific aspect of speech errors. Bechtel skillfully guides readers through a comprehensive range of topics, ensuring that no slip-up is left unaddressed. From grammatical blunders to mispronunciations, there is an abundance of examples that not only highlight the mistakes but also explain their correct usage.

One of the strengths of "Slips of Speech" is its accessibility. Bechtel's writing style is clear, concise, and easy to comprehend, making it suitable for readers of all linguistic backgrounds. Additionally, the book is structured in a logical manner, progressing from foundational concepts to more complex linguistic errors. This approach ensures that readers can absorb knowledge gradually, building a strong foundation as they advance through the chapters.

Another noteworthy aspect of Bechtel's book is his use of relatable examples. By incorporating real-life scenarios and commonly used phrases, he not only helps readers acknowledge their mistakes but also provides practical suggestions for improvement. This practical approach encourages readers to actively apply the knowledge in their daily conversations, thereby enhancing their overall communication skills.

Furthermore, "Slips of Speech" is enriched with exercises and quizzes at the end of each chapter. These interactive elements allow readers to gauge their understanding and apply the lessons learned. By incorporating these activities, Bechtel ensures that readers actively engage with the material, retaining the information more effectively.

However, it is important to note that "Slips of Speech" primarily focuses on the English language and may not be as applicable to non-native English speakers. Although the underlying principles of correcting speech errors are relevant, certain language-specific examples and nuances may limit its universality.

In conclusion, "Slips of Speech" is a highly valuable resource for individuals seeking to refine and correct their everyday language errors. Bechtel's accessible writing style, relatable examples, and interactive exercises make this book engaging and practical. While its focus on the English language may limit its applicability to non-native speakers, it is an indispensable guide for anyone aspiring to improve their communication skills.

First Page:

CHAP. PAGE INTRODUCTION, . . . . . . . . . . . 3 I. TASTE, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 II. CHOICE OF WORDS, . . . . . . . . . . 15 III. CONTRACTIONS, . . . . . . . . . . . 118 IV. POSSESSIVE CASE, . . . . . . . . . . 124 V. PRONOUNS, . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 VI. NUMBER, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 VII. ADVERBS, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150 VIII. CONJUNCTIONS, . . . . . . . . . . . 156 IX. CORRELATIVES, . . . . . . . . . . . 162 X. THE INFINITIVE, . . . . . . . . . . 166 XI. PARTICIPLES, . . . . . . . . . . . . 169 XII. PREPOSITIONS, . . . . . . . . . . . 174 XIII. THE ARTICLE, . . . . . . . . . . . . 181 XIV. REDUNDANCY, . . . . . . . . . . . . 185 XV. TWO NEGATIVES, ... Continue reading book >>