Call me a word nerd, but I love the flow of grammar. For every person who knows the difference between "its" and "it's", "there," "their," and "they're" or who cringes when someone says, "Hopefully it will not rain today," this is the book for you. ( )

A classic descriptivist guide, MWDEU evaluates contentious issues in the English language through an examination of historical usage and commentary. Its counsel is constructive, broadminded, and entertaining.

Each entry includes clear and astute analysis, a historical overview of usage and interpretation, and repeated advice to judge for oneself. The lasting impression is of being treated without condescension as a person with the good sense to assess the evidence and arguments and to make up one’s own mind.

Likely to appeal to anyone interested in the evolution and modern application of English grammar and usage. ( )

The sine qua non of English usage reference. There is an exemplary reliance on evidence (with plenty of supporting quotations), rather than the usual intellectually trivial acceptance of received rules. ( )

The most useful, readable reference I know of. For people interested in good usage, not dumb "rules." ( )