Dimensions
144 x 222 x 27mm
The best-selling guide to English usage
This new, expanded ninth edition of the best-selling guide to style is based on The Economist's own house style manual, and is an invaluable companion for everyone who wants to communicate with the clarity, style and precision for which The Economist is renowned. As the introduction says, 'clarity of writing usually follows clarity of thought.' The Style Guide gives general advice on writing, points out common errors and clich s, offers guidance on consistent use of punctuation, abbreviations and capital letters, and contains an exhaustive range of reference material - covering everything from accountancy ratios and stock market indices to laws of nature and science. Some of the numerous useful rules and common mistakes pointed out in the guide include:
- 'Which' informs, 'that' defines. This is the house that Jack built. But This house, which Jack built, is now falling down. - 'Discreet' means circumspect or prudent; 'discrete' means separate or distinct. Remember that Questions are never indiscreet. Answers sometimes are (Oscar Wilde). - 'Fortuitous' means accidental, not fortunate or well-timed.
