Full Description
Explains the uniquely American cultural references that appear in American English for students and professionals to increase their written command of the language.
Language is a window into the soul of a culture. The hardest part for newcomers who want to master American English is not learning the alphabet, grammar, or vocabulary — it's understanding the distinctive way Americans approach the world. This book shows readers how to do just that. The American Way of Writing guides readers through the nuances of American English, providing a toolkit for non-native speakers who come to the United States to study, as well as international business and legal professionals who have to work and communicate with Americans in a professional or business context.
Understanding what makes Americans uniquely "American" is a challenging subject for anyone to master. Such characteristics are always in flux and a source of constant debate. Steven D. Stark's comprehensive approach to American English in The American Way of Writing is suited to Americans and foreigners alike, offering a deeper understanding of the ties that bind rather than divide.
Contents
Acknowledgments
Introduction: Setting the Stage
Part One: Understanding Americans, Their Habits, and Their Distinctive Communication Styles
Preface to Part I
Chapter 1
A Longing for Space, Chaos, and Speed: Three Initial Aspects of the American Outlook and Language, with a Brief Introduction to the Regions of America
Chapter 2
All in It Together But All for Themselves: Six More Aspects of the American Outlook and Language
Chapter 3
Our God Is Us: The Civic Religion and American Optimism
Chapter 4
The Male Domains: Four Final (and "Manly") Aspects of the American Outlook and Language
Part Two: The Ways of the Language—The Basics
Preface to Part II
Chapter 5
Keep It Concrete and Informal, Using Short Words
Chapter 6
Lead with the Conclusion and Be Direct
Chapter 7
Getting Down to Business by Applying the Rules of the Road
Chapter 8
Editing Your Work
Part Three: Applying the Rules to the Workplace and School
Preface to Part III
Chapter 9
Writing at Work
Chapter 10
Legal Writing
Chapter 11
Writing in School
Part Four: The Varieties of English
Preface to Part IV
Chapter 12
Moving from British English to American English
Chapter 13
Moving from Other Forms of English to American English
Chapter 14
Global English
Conclusion
Bibliography
Index
