Language: reference & general

How do two languages exist in the same brain? Why is it possible for the brain to forget a language? How does bilingualism sculpt the brain? Over half of the world's population is bilingual and yet this fascinating, complex ability of the human brain is understood by few. In 'The Bilingual Brain'...

What makes 'cults' so intriguing and frightening? What makes them powerful? The reason why so many of us binge Manson documentaries by the dozen and fall down rabbit holes researching suburban moms gone QAnon is because we're looking for a satisfying explanation for what causes people to join - a...

Susie Dent, Britain's cleverest lexicographer, linguistic expert and much-loved national treasure, explores all the very best red herrings, cock and bull stories, white elephants and nine-day wonders in the English language. There are enough stories to furnish a hundred conversations in a wonderf...

Susie Dent, Britain's cleverest lexicographer, linguistic expert and much-loved national treasure, explores all the very best red herrings, cock and bull stories, white elephants and nine-day wonders in the English language. There are enough stories to furnish a hundred conversations in a wonderf...

This dictionary contains entries for more than 45,000 English, Scottish, Welsh, Irish, Cornish, and immigrant surnames in the UK and Ireland. Each entry contains lists of variant spellings, an explanation of its origins (including the etymology), lists of early bearers showing evidence for format...

The English language has evolved throughout its history, and usually for good reasons. However, in recent years, egged on by social media and the ubiquity and velocity of the internet, it has been subject to some grave assaults. There appear no longer to be any rules, in an era when, thanks to th...

Have you ever struggled to communicate with a limited-English speaker? Have you been frustrated by unsuccessful interactions with non-native English speakers? Did you know there is a simple solution to improve cross-cultural communication in English? What most of us native speakers overlook in th...

This text is full of practical advice and useful tips on how to design your CV and write successful job applications. It is part of the 'One Step Ahead' series, which is designed for all those who want and need to communicate more effectively in a range of real-life situations.

Ruth DeFries argues that a surprising set of time-tested strategies from the natural world can help humanity weather contemporary crises. Exploring the lessons that life on Earth can teach us about coping with complexity, this book offers timely options for civilisation to reorganise for a safe a...