This textbook of Modern English combines a diachronic and synchronic approach to present a study of English syntax. The book attaches great importance to precise definitions of the various parts of speech and of their grammatical function, and provides a large number of idiomatic examples to illustrate rules and uses. Historical background is provided where it is relevant to an explanation. The book includes divisions under the following topics: articles, nouns, adjectives, verbs, adverbs, pronouns, numerals, sentence structure, prepositions, word order, punctuation, and irregular verbs. (Author/VM)