The Verbalist / A Manual Devoted to Brief Discussions of the Right and the Wrong Use of Words and to Some Other Matters of Interest to Those Who Would Speak and Write with Propriety.

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

22457

Title

The Verbalist / A Manual Devoted to Brief Discussions of the Right and the Wrong Use of Words and to Some Other Matters of Interest to Those Who Would Speak and Write with Propriety.

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Alfred Ayres's *The Verbalist* serves as a concise manual for achieving propriety in speech and writing. Through brief, alphabetical discussions, the author addresses common errors in grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation, urging readers to refine their expression to reflect clear thinking and social grace.

Summary up to 500 words

Published in 1881, *The Verbalist* by Alfred Ayres serves as a practical manual dedicated to correcting linguistic errors and promoting elegant communication. Organized alphabetically for convenience, the text offers brief yet authoritative discussions on specific words and phrases, aiming to assist those who wish to speak and write with propriety. Ayres argues that inaccurate writing is the direct expression of inaccurate thinking, linking linguistic precision to intellectual clarity. Throughout the work, he cites authorities such as Richard Grant White, Edward S. Gould, and William Cobbett to support his arguments while acknowledging regional differences between American and British usage. The book addresses frequent confusions, such as the distinction between 'adapt' (modifying a play for representation) and 'dramatize' (changing a story into a drama). It clarifies the difference between 'capacity' (the power to receive knowledge) and 'ability' (the power to apply it). Ayres also tackles stylistic issues, advising against vulgarisms like using 'ad' for advertisement and the improper use of 'lady' to denote any woman, reserving the term for women of exemplary character and refinement. He emphasizes that mastering language is a lifelong labor essential for eloquence. A significant portion of the manual is devoted to pronunciation, distinguishing between the verbs 'lie' and 'lay' and correcting common mispronunciations of foreign names. Ayres further explores the misuse of adjectives versus adverbs, noting that while classical analogies sometimes justify certain errors, modern usage often demands strict adherence to grammatical rules to avoid confusion. He also critiques the casual use of 'you was' and the possessive 'whose' for inanimate objects, advocating for precision over convenience. By distinguishing between vulgarisms and genteel errors, Ayres encourages readers to cultivate a sense of propriety, asserting that a person's company is often known by their manner of expressing themselves. Ultimately, the book appeals to individuals seeking to refine their character through the disciplined use of language.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• English Language