Grammar, we wants it

[janewilliams20]

 I've been realising recently that while I know how to use English grammar, I lack the vocabulary to describe it. I learnt it by absorption, not by formal teaching, so while I understand and use the differences between, say "I walked", "I was walking", "I have walked", "I walked the dog", I have no idea what any of these structures are called.

I'd like to correct this. I've tried Googling variations on "English grammar" and only found very trivial tuition sites, or ones that say what you should do in what circumstances (which I already knew), but without explaining the underlying structure. Can anyone recommend a text book or equivalent website that would give me what I need?

Comments

Off Latest Things page

[needled_ink_1975]

Hi

Grammar Monster may seem like it's all fun, but it's a really comprehensive site that I recommend whenever I can (and I take their grammar tests sometimes, in lieu of writing exercises). But if you want an actual reference book, I'd suggest the Oxford Modern English Grammar.

And I'll buzz away now :)

–Nic

Re: Off Latest Things page

[janewilliams20]

Thanks! Site added to bookmarks, and I'll look into the book: "Oxford" is always a reassuring word in the title of a language reference