Friends, every language has its own basic rules regarding grammar, spelling, syntax, etc. English is no exception. On the pages of our website you can find a detailed description of each section of grammar, reading rules, syntactic rules, speech patterns in English.
In this article we will not dwell in detail on each section of the language.
Our material today is intended specifically for beginners in learning the language, for those who have taken up English from scratch. We want to present to you the most basic, most important and necessary rules of the English language, which you will encounter everywhere while mastering this language. If you are ready, then 15 basic rules are waiting for you!
You need to know these rules!
So, dear readers, now you will get acquainted with the basic rules of English from different sections language. They concern grammar, speech, syntax and much more. All you need is to read the rules carefully and thoughtfully, pay attention to the examples and, of course, remember them! If you wish, you can copy this information into your English notebook or notepad. This way, you can always remind yourself of what you need in a particular exercise.
Rule #1
After modal verbs there is a particle to not used. We are speaking:
- Imust learn Englishmodalverbs. — I have to learn English modal verbs.
- You should listen to your parents. “You should listen to your parents.”
- May I take yournotebooktillSunday? — Can I borrow your laptop until Sunday?
And in no case do we say: must to learn; should to listen; may to take etc.
Rule No. 2
You cannot use the definite/indefinite article with a pronoun:
- I love my mother. - II loveminemom.
- Where is your friend now? - WhereNowis yoursFriend?
- Yesterday I met Tom and his wife. — Yesterday I met Tom and his wife.
You can't say: the my mother or my mother; the friend or your friend. You can immediately see how absurd this looks, and even more so, how absurd it sounds. It really hurts my ears!
Rule No. 3
Adverbs of the English language (for the question “how?”) are formed according to the scheme: adjective + ending ly:
- Perfect - perfect ly- excellent, wonderful, wonderful
- Quick - quick ly- quickly, nimbly
- Rapid - rapid ly- fast
- Quiet - Quiet ly- quiet
- Nice - nice ly- cute
- Easy - easy ly- easily
- Beautiful - beautiful ly- Beautiful
- He entered the room quietly. - Hequiethas enteredVroom.
- Tom did his homework perfectly fine! - Volumedidmyhomeexcellent job (incredibly good)!
- Suelooksbeautifully today. — Sue looks beautiful today.
Rule No. 4
Use PresentSimple, after unions if,assoonasbefore,when,till,until,after,incase in sentences of time and conditions relating to the future:
- When I finish school, I will go to my grandparents in the countryside. - WhenII'll finishschool, II'll goTominegrandfatherAndgrandmaVvillage.
- After you study your family tree, you will find out where you descend from. - AfterTogo, HowYouyou will studygenealogicaltreeyoursfamilies, Youyou will find, fromwhomYouhappening.
- Your elder brother will certainly help you if you ask- Is yoursseniorBrotherNecessarilywill helpyou, IfYouhisask.
Rule No. 5
Word order in English sentence is:
Subject + predicate + direct object + indirect object + adverbial
Subject + predicate + direct object + indirect object + adverbal modifier
- Isentyoualetterlastweek. — I sent you a letter last week.
- I saw Mike in the club. - IsawMikeVclub.
- It was sunny yesterday. - Yesterdaywassunny.
In a Russian sentence, liberties are allowed, and there is no specific word order in it, everything depends on the emotion embedded in it. In an English sentence, everything is clear and strict.
Rule No. 6
Phrasal verbs (verb + preposition) of the English language have their own separate meaning and their own translation. For example:
To look- look; to look for- search
To put- put, put; to put on- put on
Compare:
- Put the plates on the table, please. - Put itdishesontable, Please.
- It is cold outside; put on your coat. - OnstreetCold, put it oncoat.
Rule No. 7
The most general rule for the definite and indefinite articles of the English language: the indefinite article is placed where nothing is known about the subject; The definite article is used where something is known about the subject.
- I see a The girl walking down the street is very beautiful. - II seegirl. The girl walking down the street is very beautiful.
Rule No. 8
Ending - ed characteristic of the past tenses of only regular verbs. Irregular verbs have a different form for each past tense. For example:
Look -looked BUT! Bring -brought —brought
Rule No. 9
There are 4 types of questions in English:
We go to the theater every Saturday. - Welet's goVtheatereverySaturday.
- General(general): Do we go to the theater every Saturday? —Welet's goVtheatereverySaturday?
- Special(special): Where do we go every Saturday? —WhereWelet's goeverySaturday?
- Alternative(alternative): Do we go to the theater every Saturday or every Sunday? —Welet's goVtheatereverySaturdayoreachSunday?
- Disjunctive(separating): We go to the theater every Saturday, don’t we? —Welet's goVtheatereverySaturday, NotSowhether?
Rule No. 10
To make an impersonal sentence, you need a pronoun It:
- It is cold today. - TodayCold.
- It is morning. - Morning.
- It is difficult to translate this text. - Thistextdifficulttranslate.
Rule № 11
After alliances asif,asthough(as if, as if, as if, as if) in the conditional mood, verb tobe in the 3rd person singular takes the form were:
- She speaks so proudlyas if she wasn't guilty. “She speaks so proudly, as if she’s not guilty.”
- Tom looks as though he were rich. - VolumelooksSoas ifHerich.
Rule No. 12
Conditional incentive sentences in the 1st and 3rd person are formed using the word Let's:
- Let's I have a look at these pictures. - Let me look at these photographs.
- Let's him sleep, he is tired. - Giveto himsleep, Hetired.
Rule No. 13
Everyone knows what the word is many is used with countable nouns, and the word much- with the uncountable. But, if suddenly you find it difficult, doubt, forgot the rule or don’t understand what noun is in front of you, feel free to use a combination of words alotof. It applies to both types of nouns.
- Many birds a lot of birds
- Much sugar - a lot of sugar
Rule no.14
Many English words are polysemic, that is, they can have several meanings. It depends on the context and meaning of the sentence. To more accurately understand the translation, you should consult a dictionary and clarify in what context the word is used.
- Toshoot- shoot on video; toshoot- fire
- Country- a country; country- village, village
Rule No. 15
Verb do can replace the main verb in a sentence. For example:
- Kate doesn't like to clean her room, but I do. —KateNotlovestake awaymyroom, AII love.
- Amanda likes to get presents, but I don't. — Amanda likes receiving gifts, but I don’t.
- Steve often ignores his duties, but his sister doesn't. — Steveoftenneglectstheirresponsibilities, AhissisterNo.
So we get to the fifteenth rule. Of course, this is not all. Each section of the English language has its own characteristics, and, therefore, its own laws. We told you only about the most basic ones. We hope you find them useful in learning the language. We wish you good luck and see you again!
If you study or teach English, good English grammar book can play a crucial role in language learning.
The choice of textbooks on English grammar today is striking in the variety of authors, publishers and affordable prices. It would seem that anyone who speaks English decided to share their observations, how to learn English grammar.
People do not invent languages by writing grammars, they write grammars by observing the tacit, largely unconscious, rules that people seem to be applying when they speak. Yet once a book exists, and especially once it is employed in schoolrooms, people feel that the rules are not just descriptions of how people do talk, but prescriptions for how they should talk.
People don't invent languages by writing grammar books; they write grammar books by observing the nonverbal, and largely unconscious, rules that people seem to use when speaking. But, as soon as the textbook is written and used in class, we notice that grammatical rules are not a description of conversation, but a prescription for how to speak.
Does it exist perfect English grammar textbook, which will be useful to anyone interested in grammar explanations and rules? What selection criteria should you use when choosing a grammar reference book?
Today we will talk about well-known grammar manuals by domestic and foreign authors, and we will tell you how to choose English grammar textbook, which you will definitely need.
How to choose a good grammar textbook for self-study
First, you should figure out what level of language proficiency you have.
You may ask, which one? English grammar textbook best? Of course, the choice of textbook largely depends on your preferences, goals and level. However, methodological requirements for a grammar textbook, its content and structure play an important role.
Reference books, textbooks, manuals and collections of exercises on English grammar
Before purchasing, try to answer the question: Why do you need a grammar book? The answer to this question will help you save not only time, but also effort and money.
For a more detailed acquaintance with the rules (= theory), various English grammar reference books. Such manuals explain the rules in detail and provide a large number of examples. Exercise, as a rule, may be absent or present in small quantities.
Collections of exercises on English grammar are built slightly differently. Their goal is to practice the rules in the form of various exercises or language tasks. In such textbooks, a minimum amount of theory is usually presented in the form of brief explanations, supporting tables and diagrams.
On a note!
Modern textbooks on English grammar consist of two parts: theory and practice. Both parts can be included in one book or published in separate editions.
Whatever the structure of the book, the basic requirements for a grammar textbook, which both students and teachers unanimously repeat, are the following:
- compliance with the student’s language level;
- accessibility and completeness of presentation;
- following the principles from simple to complex;
- modernity of language material;
- availability of reference tables, diagrams and answers for self-test;
- reasonable price and print quality.
As you can see, good grammar book must meet a sufficiently large list of criteria to be useful and enjoyable for English learners.
What is the best English grammar textbook?
Learning a foreign language requires the student to regularly carefully study language grammatical material. Remember that even the best grammar book- it is just a tool to achieve a goal with which the process of learning and mastering English becomes interesting and effective.
It is believed that the use of numerous grammar reference books will allow one to acquire a deeper and more comprehensive knowledge of English grammar.
But there is also a significant disadvantage. If you want, multiple rules from different textbooks can lead to a complete misunderstanding of the theory, and, accordingly, to the inability to use grammatical phenomena in speech correctly.
List of the best grammar textbooks
Name | Author, publisher | Level | Year of issue |
---|---|---|---|
English language: simply about complex things. Practical course | Leventhal V.I. (Manuscript) |
Beginner | 1993 |
All rules of the English language | Sergey Matveev (AST) |
for schoolchildren | 2015 |
All English grammar in tables | G. P. Shalaeva (Philological Society "WORD") |
Beginner | 2004 |
English grammar | Kobrina N.A. (Union) |
Intermediate | 1999 |
English grammar | Kaushanskaya V. (Iris Press) |
Intermediate | 2008 |
English grammar. Collection of exercises | Barashkova E.A. (Exam, Moscow) |
Elementary | 2016 |
Grammar. Collection of exercises | Golitsynsky Yu.B. (KARO) |
Beginner | 2011 |
Practical English Grammar | Kachalova K.N. Izrailevich E.E. (Methodology) |
From Beginner to Upper-Intermediate | 2003 |
A Practical English Grammar | A. J. Thomson, A. V. Martinet (Oxford University Press) |
For intermediate and post-intermediate | 2011 |
Active Grammar | Fiona Davis, Wayne Rimmer |
3 books (Elementary, Intermediate, Advanced) | 2011 |
Active Grammar Practice | Louis Fidge (Learners Publishing) |
6 books (Starter-Pre-Intermediate) | 2005 |
Advanced Language practice | Michael Vince (MacMillan Publishing) |
Advanced | 2003 |
Basic Grammar | Betty Azar (Longman - 2nd edition), (Pearson Education - 3d edition) |
Beginner | 2002, 2006 |
Business Grammar Builder | Paul Emmerson (Macmillan) |
Upper Intermediate | 2010 |
Hewings Martin (Cambridge University Press) |
Advanced | 2009 | |
Developing Grammar In Context | Mark Nettle, Diana Hopkins (Cambridge University Press) |
Intermediate | 2003 |
Developing grammar in context | Michael Vince, Simon Clarke (Macmillan ELT) |
3 books (Intermediate, Advanced, Essential) | 2007, 2008 |
Elementary Language Practice | Vince Michael (MacMillan) |
Elementary | 2010 |
English: An Essential Grammar | Gerald Nelson, Routledge (London and New York) |
Pre-Intermediate | 2001, 2011 |
English Grammar in Use | Raymond Murphy (Cambridge University Press) |
4 editions (Intermediate and Advanced) | 1994, 2004, 2012 |
English Grammar Practice | L.G. Alexander (Longman) |
Intermediate, Upper-Intermediate | 1998, 2000 |
English Grammar Practice intermediate Self Study Edition | L.G. ALexander (Longman Press) |
Intermediate | 2001 |
English Grammar Workbook for Dummies | Geraldine Woods (Wiley Publishing, Inc.) |
Beginner | 2006 |
First Certificate Skills: Use of English | Mark Harrison (Oxford University Press) |
Intermediate | 2004 |
Focus on Advanced English CAE: Grammar Practice | Richard Walton (Longman) |
Upper-Intermediate | 1999 |
Focus on grammar | Jay Maurer (Longman Pearson) |
5 books (1 - Introductory, 2 - Basic, 3 - Intermediate, 4 - Hi-Intermediate, 4 - Advanced) |
1998-2011 |
Fun With Grammar | Suzanne W. Woodward (Prentice Hall Regents) |
Beginner and Intermediate | 1997 |
Betty Azar (Longman Press) |
Intermediate | 2003 | |
Grammar for English Language | Martin Parrott (Cambridge University Press) |
All levels | 2010 |
Grammar for Teachers: A Guide to American English for native and non-native speakers | Andrea DeCapua (Springer) |
Upper-Intermediate | 2008 |
Grammar Friends | Tim Ward and Eileen Flannigan (Oxford University Press) |
6 books (Beginner to Elementary) | 2009 |
Grammar Lab | Kenna Bourke (Oxford University Press) |
3 books (Beginner to Intermediate) | 2010 |
Grammar Plus | Roy Kingsbury (Longman) |
3 books (Elementary, Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate) |
1995 |
Grammar Practice for Intermediate Students | John Eastwood, Norman Coe, Mark Harrison, Ken Paterson (Oxford University Press) |
3 books |
1999-2008 |
Grammar Spectrum | K. Paterson (Oxford University Press) |
3 books (Elementary, Pre-intermediate, Intermediate) |
1995 |
Grammar Time | Sandy Jervis and Maria Carling (Longman Pearson) |
5 books (for pupils) | 2002, 2008 |
Grammar With Laughter | George Woolard (Language Teaching Publications) |
Intermediate | 1999 |
Grammarway | Jenny Dooley & Virginia Evans (Express Publishing) |
4 books (Beginner) | 1999-2004 |
Just Enough English Grammar Illustrated | Gabriele Stobbe (McGraw-Hill Education) |
Beginner | 2007 |
Language In Use | Doff Adrian, Adrian Doff, Christopher Jones (Cambridge University Press) |
4 books (Beginner, Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate, Upper-intermediate) |
1999, 2000 |
Oxford - Basic English Usage | Michael Swan (Oxford University Press) |
Beginner | 1995 |
Oxford Living Grammar | Ken Paterson, Mark Harrison, and Norman Coe (Oxford University Press) |
4 books (Elementary, Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate, Upper-Intermediate) |
2009 |
Oxford practice grammar | George Yule (Oxford University Press) |
Advanced | 2006 |
Oxford Practice Grammar with Answers | John Eastwood; George Yule; Norman Coe, Mark Harrison, Ken Paterson (Oxford University Press) |
3 books (Basic, Intermediate, Advanced) |
2006 |
Practical English Usage | Michael Swan (Oxford University Press) |
Intermediate to Advanced | 2005 |
Round Up | Virginia Evans, Prysyazhnyuk, Pilipchenko (Longman Pearson) |
7 books (From Beginner to Upper-Intermediate) |
2006-2014 |
Superbook: English Grammar from Jokes and Cartoons / English grammar based on jokes and cartoons | Alexander Gerasimenko (KnoRus) |
For adults | 2008 |
Test It, Fix It. English Grammar | Kenna Bourke (Oxford University Press) |
3 books (Pre-intermediate, Intermediate, Upper-intermediate) |
2003 |
The Good Grammar Book | Michael Swan, Catherine Walter (Oxford University Press) |
Beginner and Intermediate | 2009 |
The Verbals | Drozdova T.Yu. (Anthology) |
Intermediate | 2008 |
Timesaver Grammar Activities | Jane Rollason (Scholastic) |
Pre-Intermediate – Intermediate | 2008 |
Timesaver Visual Grammar | Mark Fletcher, Richard Munns (Scholastic) |
Elementary-Intermediate | 2004 |
Top 10 Great Grammar for Great Writing | Keith S. Folse (Thomson Heinle) |
Intermediate | 2008 |
Don’t forget that to begin with, you need: in a textbook of the appropriate level you will be able to find words you already know in examples, and not waste time translating them. Moreover, grammar rules for dummies are written in simple language and with a minimum of terminology.
In this article we will dwell more than once on English grammar textbooks for beginners and advanced.
Textbooks on English grammar: in Russian or Oxford, Cambridge?
An undeniable advantage that grammar books in English have is their presentation. modern material in English.
It’s good that today in the world of online stores you can get almost any book, regardless of who its author is and where it was published.
The Internet is literally teeming with requests “Download English grammar textbook for free”. Today we will not talk about copyrights, which are violated everywhere in the hope of finding the most ideal English grammar textbook. Let's leave this question to your conscience and your discretion.
The main thing is that everyone who studies and teaches English has a choice: to study using textbooks by domestic authors or to give preference to authentic manuals.
Books on English grammar in Russian
Books on English grammar in Russian written by our compatriots who themselves studied English, and therefore know what difficulties you may encounter.
Books on English grammar in Russian have a number of advantages:
- the rules are given in Russian, your native language, which makes them much easier to understand and remember;
- the ability to compare the grammatical realities of two languages: English and Russian;
- relatively low cost of domestic textbooks;
- Availability in printed form in almost any bookstore; upon purchase, you can leaf through this textbook and decide whether you need it.
Among the disadvantages, one should highlight the inauthenticity of these publications (the books were written by people for whom English is not their native language), sometimes outdated information and a large number of typos in the text are found.
The best grammar textbooks in Russian
One of the most popular books by domestic authors is considered “Practical Grammar” by Kachalova K.N. The textbook “Practical Grammar” consists of two volumes: first the voluminous theoretical part is presented, exercises with keys follow at the end of the second book.
Practical grammar of the English language Kachalova K.N. Izrailevich E.E. download
The textbook has also proven itself well among teachers. "English language. Grammar. Collection of exercises” Yu.B. Golitsynsky, which contains a huge number of exercises for entry-level and above. A big advantage of this textbook is the presence of exercises for Russian-English translation, however, not all students like the same type of exercises.
Textbook Grammar Golitsynsky Yu.B. download
Benefit "English Grammar" (author N.A. Kobrina) is an excellent reference book that meticulously describes all the phenomena of English grammar that have no analogues in the Russian language. The author recommends consolidating the material covered by doing exercises, which, unfortunately, are not in the book itself. The book is written in English with big amount examples from British and American literature.
Kobrina English grammar download
Books on English grammar in English
Books on grammar by English-speaking authors written by native speakers, so the main advantage is the reliability of the data that is present in the textbook. This is especially true for publishers such as Oxford University Press or Cambridge University, which publish specialized literature for English learners and teachers.
Other advantages of English grammar books are:
- modern and high-quality language material;
- complete immersion in the language, all explanations and assignments are given in English;
- a variety of aids depending on the level of language proficiency and learning goals;
- availability of additional materials for the textbook (teacher's book, workbook, audio, etc.).
Among the English-language authors, the textbook should be highlighted “Oxford Practice Grammar” by John Eastwood and multi-level benefits Raymond Murphy “English Grammar in Use”. Both books introduce the rules through illustrated dialogues with a bit of explanation, followed by exercises that refer to the rules themselves.
Perhaps there is only one drawback of foreign textbooks - the high cost of textbooks. In addition, it is not always possible to immediately buy the book you are interested in: they are sold in certified language centers, and sometimes they are brought to order from a warehouse.
Cost of English grammar textbooks
Typically, the most inexpensive textbooks edited by domestic publishers are published with a small number of pages and in soft cover.
The most expensive textbooks are books on English grammar published in the UK or USA. The publishing houses of Oxford and Cambridge universities are widely known.
The lesser-known printing houses Pearson Longman, Penguin Random House and Macmillan are no worse in quality of grammatical material.
Prices for original textbooks from foreign publishers start at $40 for a textbook and $25 for a workbook.
On a note:
The price of a grammar textbook varies from 100 to 3,000 rubles, depending on the quality of the printed edition, the popularity of the author and the demand for the book.
More economical option- buy used books. The main condition is that the pages should not be filled out by the previous owner.
Well, the cheapest books, of course, are publicly available on the Internet, which you can download and print. Unfortunately, the quality of scanned books leaves much to be desired, which cannot be said about electronic versions of grammar textbooks.
English grammar textbooks for beginners
If you are a beginner “user” of a foreign language, then we provide you the best grammar textbooks for beginners.
We decided to look in more detail at foreign publications so that you can learn more about the advantages that Oxford and Cambridge grammar textbooks have.
Essential Grammar in Use (Raymond Murphy)
Any lesson in “Murphy” takes only two pages: on the left - theory, on the right - practical exercises
Grammar textbook “Essential Grammar in Use” Raymond Murphy's book is so popular that it has been reprinted several times. Many students and teachers have long included it in the list of the most universal textbooks on English grammar.
The author of the textbook is Raymond Murphy. Raymond Murphy), a teacher from the USA with extensive experience teaching people with different levels of language proficiency. He created a handbook that is convenient and not overloaded with unnecessary information, which is perfect for self-study.
There are actually two books in this series: “red” by Murphy ( Essential Grammar in Use) and “blue” Murphy ( English Grammar in Use). The books got their names based on the color of the cover. Red Murphy is for levels Elementary and Pre-Intermediate, and blue Murphy is recommended for the Intermediate level.
Each of the books in this series includes more than 100 lessons (2 pages each) on various grammar topics, from simple to more complex. Illustrated explanations accurately convey the meaning of the rules, and the language of explanations is concise and understandable even for beginners.
After each section, the publisher offers a series of exercises to consolidate and test the understood theoretical material.
The latest 4th edition pleased with the voice-over of dialogues and interactive exercises on the CD, which is sold with the textbook.
Surely Murphy's textbook Essential Grammar in Use” will delight everyone who strives to learn grammar with a minimum of effort.
Basic English Grammar
The grammar in the Basic English Grammar textbook is presented in the best traditions of the communicative approach.
"Azar Grammar Series"is a classic series of textbooks on English grammar, which enjoys well-deserved popularity in many countries around the world.
The series consists of 3 books:
- Basic English Grammar- First level ( beginner). Aimed at visual learners with numerous illustrations and diagrams. For auditory learners, it will be a plus to have audio for the textbook. Additional goodies: a booklet with tests and a book for the teacher.
- Fundamentals Of English Grammar- average level ( intermediate). The textbook is especially good for its tables and diagrams; they help you remember and assimilate a large amount of material at once. A huge number of examples will help you understand the use of grammatical structures in speech.
- Understanding And Using English Grammar- advanced level ( advanced). There is an audio for the textbook and a workbook. The third edition differs from the previous ones in that it places greater emphasis on the communicative aspect of the English language in its American version.
Studying grammar from textbooks Azar Grammar Series takes place in close connection with the development of writing, reading and speaking skills. The textbook will be an excellent addition to the main one, and sometimes can replace it.
Active Grammar
Textbooks Active Grammar Levels 1,2,3 contain a large number of exercises to practice and test grammatical skills
Cambridge University Press has once again pleased us with its selection of grammar for different levels. The textbook was published in 2011, but the relevant and interesting material pleases readers to this day.
Active Grammar Levels 1,2,3 was originally announced for teenagers. The book contains a large number of colorful illustrations: on the covers there are children, inside there are comics, legends and contexts on history, geography and other subjects that are usually found in schools.
However, the presentation of grammatical material in Active Grammar 1-3 is quite suitable for adults with a variety of levels. Written by Fiona Davis and Fine Rimmer Fiona Davis, Wayne Rimmer) assume the following calibration of benefits by level:
- Active Grammar 1 certification levels A1-A2 ( beginner- elementary)
- Active Grammar 2 certification levels B1-B2 ( pre-intermediate - intermediate)
- Active Grammar 3 certification levels C1-C2 ( upper-intermediate - advanced)
Active Grammar Level 1 covers all the grammar taught at elementary levels, and gives complete, comprehensive information to answer any question you may have.
The advantages of the book are undoubtedly the clarity and simplicity of explanation of the rules through informative texts and presentations, the presence of practical recommendations and a large number of exercises for consolidation. The exercises are also suitable for students preparing for exams Cambridge ESOL .
All books in the Active Grammar series contain a lot of additional materials for viewing (section My test!), as well as tests for self-control. At the end of the book there are answers, vocabulary and reference tables.
Fascinating texts on geography, history and science include facts about modern world, which allows you to expand your horizons and, along with grammar, improve your active vocabulary.
Oxford Practice Grammar Basic
Oxford Practice Grammar Basic is an excellent all-in-one grammar guide for beginners.
Books of the series Oxford Practice Grammar(authors Norman Coe, Mark Harrison, Ken Paterson) is sometimes often confused with the publication of the same name Oxford Practice Grammar John Eastwood (eng. John Eastwood), but these are completely different books.
Eastwood's Grammar Guide is intended for intermediate students, while Oxford Practice Grammar series consists of three books:
- (beginner- elementary)
- Oxford Practice Grammar Intermediate (pre-intermediate-intermediate)
- Oxford Practice Grammar Advanced (upper-intermediate-advanced)
Benefit Oxford Practice Grammar Basic You will certainly be pleased with the brevity and accessibility of the explanations. The book presents all the necessary grammatical structures for those who have just started learning English or are preparing to take it.
The rules are given in context in the form of illustrated dialogues, color diagrams and tables. Funny illustrations enliven the textbook, giving it a truly English charm.
Carefully selected exercises usually take 1-2 pages and are presented in order from simple to complex. In the textbook Oxford Practice Grammar Basic There is also a system of intermediate tests that will help you track your progress yourself.
At the end of the manual there is quite a large amount of additional materials: a short grammar reference, control testing on topics, keys, table of contents.
The CD was a nice bonus for the textbook. Practice-Plus with interactive listening, reading, writing exercises and quizzes. It is worth noting that on the disc you will not find the usual grammar exercises, but you will certainly see how grammar works in speech.
Textbook Oxford Practice Grammar Basic Definitely worth trying in class or for independent study.
English grammar. Textbooks for intermediate level
If everything is more or less clear with books on English grammar for beginners (they contain a huge number of illustrations and diagrams), then grammar textbooks for Pre-Intermediate and Intermediate levels should be deprived of such advantages. Or not?
Let's take a closer look at which grammar textbooks are suitable for intermediate level.
Round-up 3, 4
Each Round-Up textbook is designed for a specific level with tasks different types difficulties.
Grammar Textbook Series Round-Up represented by six books for levels from beginner before upper-intermediate. This textbook, edited by Virginia Evans, has many grammar tables, colorful illustrations and practice tasks.
There are quite a lot of pictures and funny drawings in the textbook. Round-Up at any level, which allows visual learners to remember information better and children to “grasp” new material, and for adults - to take a little break from daily worries and, with childlike ease, immerse themselves in the fascinating world of a foreign language.
Each subsequent textbook in the series Round-Up provides students with an in-depth and varied understanding of grammar. Textbooks Round-Up designed taking into account the age characteristics of students, as well as various styles training.
The main advantage of books for levels pre-intermediate and intermediate (Round-Up 3, 4) is a detailed presentation of grammatical material with numerous examples of use.
The exercises are very varied. Of course, there are standard opening brackets and filling in the blanks, but there are also exercises aimed at training grammatical rules in everyday situations. Their number is large and you won’t get bored from the monotony!
An interesting fact is that some topics overlap in the next level textbook, but always contain more detailed information or an in-depth dive into the topic being studied. This gives students the opportunity to improve previously acquired knowledge.
In addition, I would like to note the presence of excellent reference material at the end of the textbook (phrasal verbs, prepositions, word formation). All books in this series are accompanied by a teacher's book.
Despite the fact that Round-Up 1 and 2 books were designed more for children and teenagers (they contain a huge number of bright illustrations), textbooks Round-Up 3, 4 will delight adults with the seriousness of the material presented.
Grammarway
In the Grammaway textbook you can find review material after every five sections
This grammatical edition is also edited by Virginia Evans and is similar to the previous textbook Round-up in the order in which the material is supplied. The difference is that Grammaway benefits are more suitable for middle school students.
Textbook Grammarway 1-4 from Express Publishing presented in four books:
- Grammarway 1(for level Beginner)
- Grammarway 2(for level Elementary)
- Grammarway 3(for level Pre-Intermediate)
- Grammarway 4(for level Intermediate)
The rules duplicate each other in all books; there are only gradually more of them. The book is written in English, but the material is presented clearly and accessible.
In this textbook you will find all the main points of English grammar, which is studied in grades 5-11: the tense system, modal verbs, passive voice, countable/uncountable nouns, all types of questions, etc.
In the textbook Grammarway 3 There are many exercises for practical grammar practice in speaking and writing. After every five sections there are materials for review on the topics covered. At the end of the book there are great communication games that few people know about. The manual also comes with a teacher's book with guidelines and keys.
Textbook "Grammarway" presents himself as "self-study", i.e. for independent studies. With a certain level of preparation, of course, you can use this textbook as a simulator, but without preparation it is better not to take on this textbook yourself - it will still be more correct if the teacher explains at least some of the basics.
Grammar Spectrum
Grammar textbook Grammar Spectrum 1,2,3 is one of the few that offers fun communicative grammar activities
Spectrum English Textbook by Sandra Costinette and Donald Bird Sandra Costinett, Donald R. H. Byrd) is practically unknown to a wide audience, but the addition to it, Grammar Spectrum, turned out to be more in demand and popular.
Grammar Book Series Grammar Spectrum 1,2,3 consists of three books: for basic, pre-intermediate and sufficient levels.
Each book can be used as a reference and a full-fledged grammar textbook or as a supplement to a textbook of the same level.
The structure of the Grammar Spectrum books is somewhat similar to the more famous Murphy textbook, except that it does not contain illustrated pictures when introducing the rules.
Explanations are given briefly in the form of reference diagrams and large quantity examples. The exercises, although they take up one to one and a half pages, are quite comprehensive and thoughtful.
The main advantage of the textbook Grammar Spectrum 2 is consistent with the curriculum of most communication textbooks in English, be it English Files, Speakout or English Results.
At the end of the book there are a number of goodies for students: tables of times and a short set of rules for their education, exit tests and keys.
Focus on Grammar Intermediate
Focus on Grammar is rightfully considered one of the best grammar textbooks.
Textbook Focus on Grammar from Longman is, without a doubt, the best English grammar course. It consists of 5 books for all levels:
- Focus on Grammar 1(Introductory)
- Focus on Grammar 2(Basic)
- Focus on Grammar 3(Intermediate)
- Focus on Grammar 4(Hi-Intermediate)
- Focus on Grammar 4(Advanced)
The series has already gone through four editions, which indicates its versatility and recognition from students and teachers.
Focus on Grammar is a living, integrated textbook built in the best traditions of the communicative approach. It contains various exercises not only on grammar, but also on listening, reading and writing.
For level Pre-Intermediate textbook materials are suitable Focus on Grammar 2, 3. Each of these manuals contains 2 textbooks: a student book with an audio CD and a workbook with keys. Book for teachers ( Teacher's Manual) with answers to Student Book is also present.
The theory in the textbook is presented in the form of clear presentations and diagrams, followed by exercises to understand the rules and tasks to practice grammatical skills.
The workbook contains a huge number of additional exercises, so you can be sure that you will spend more than one week studying.
To track learning progress, an impressive collection of diagnostic and control tests with answers is provided for teachers, and for students - interactive disk for students. The latest edition even added a test generator, which significantly individualizes the learning process and makes the teacher’s work easier.
At the end of the book for students you can see multi-page applications (from formations of tenses to rules for the formation of word forms), a list of grammatical terms, tests with keys.
Self-instruction manual on English grammar for Advanced level
So, you are already an advanced language user! However, this is not a reason to complete your training and not improve further. Grammar is a delicate matter: the more you know, the less you seem to know.
To feel like a real English pro, don't forget to check out the following at your leisure. grammar textbooks for Upper-Intermediate and Advanced levels and to prepare for international exams IELTS, CAE, CPE.
Cambridge Grammar for IELTS
The most undeniable advantage of the Cambridge Grammar for IELTS textbook is the presence of listening tasks.
Grammar tutorial Cambridge Grammar for IELTS was written by two famous English authors: Diana Hopkins and Pauline Coolen (eng. Diana Hopkins, Pauline Cullen). This grammar textbook is an indispensable assistant at levels Upper-Intermediate and Advanced .
The book has everything for those planning to take an international exam: an overview of the grammatical minimum for IELTS test, numerous exercises to practice it, tasks to develop listening and reading skills.
An introduction to the grammatical topic is given through small communicative tasks, which allows you to initially “feel” the grammatical phenomenon. The theory itself is presented in simple, understandable language and is replete with a large number of examples that immediately catch the eye.
Answers and audio tracks are provided at the end of the book, so you don't have to wonder if you answered correctly. For using the book in lessons with a teacher, there is also a version without keys.
The textbook includes IELTS tasks from both modules ( Academic and General), which makes it almost universal when preparing for this exam.
Advanced Grammar in Use
The Advanced Grammar in Use textbook is rich in grammar rules
Many people mistakenly attribute the textbook Advanced Grammar in Use(Cambridge Publishing House) to the previously mentioned Raymond Murphy.
Indeed, this textbook is similar in structure to Murphy's Red and Blue. In the book, grammar material is divided into 120 chapters, each of which takes up two pages: rules on the left, and practice exercises on the right. Illustrated explanations have replaced diagrams and sketches.
Self-instruction manual Advanced Grammar in Use, and this is how its author Martin Hewins characterizes it, is designed for students with high level language ( Upper-Intermediate and above), so in it you will not find rules on how it is formed or what it is.
The theoretical material is presented very concisely and intensively; the size of one page is clearly not enough to present it completely. Therefore, the author has allocated an additional section at the end of the textbook called Grammar Reminder and reiterated the important key points.
There are not so many exercises in the manual, and even the “Additional exercises” section will not help you with thorough processing of voluminous information. Among the tasks, self-control exercises prevail (find a mistake, correct a sentence, etc.), which should please students planning to take international exams. FCE, IELTS exams.
A nice bonus that few people who pick up the book for the first time know about is the learning planner. Study Planner). By taking this test yourself, you can see what problem areas you have by checking your answers against the keys. The textbook will tell you where to look for the information you are interested in.
In general, the textbook is rich in grammatical rules, which are described very carefully, with all the pitfalls and exceptions. If you are already an advanced user of the language and want to work on complex grammatical material, then Advanced Grammar in Use for you!
Grammar Scan
In Michael Swan's Grammar Scan textbook you won't find explanations or rules, only English grammar tests.
Grammar Scan (Diagnostic Tests for Practical English Usage)- an interesting guide that differs from most textbooks and reference books on English grammar.
If you are already familiar with the books of this author, you will have noticed that everything that Michael Swan does, he does with high quality. His new three-level grammar course ( Oxford English Grammar Course Advanced) has received multiple awards and is a best-selling textbook.
Grammar Scan Guide is primarily a collection of tests for the textbook Practical English Usage (published in 2005), which will help you understand where to move next. The collection contains various tasks by level: Upper-Intermediate(29 tests), Advanced(29 tests) and Expert(30 tests).
A huge advantage of these tests is the connection with the grammar reference book: what you read about in the textbook Practical English Usage, can be checked in a test, and vice versa, the test will help identify gaps in knowledge.
Rest assured, each test is aimed at deep checking in each grammatical topic: whether adjectives, articles or . The tests themselves are incredibly varied and will not leave you indifferent. There are clues at the end of the tutorial so you can test yourself.
Grammar Scan can be used both for self-control and in class lessons to diagnose learning outcomes
Cambridge Grammar for CAE and Proficiency
The Cambridge Grammar for CAE and Proficiency textbook is perfectly structured: it includes both theory and practice. But its special value lies in practice tests to SAE and CPE.
Textbook Cambridge Grammar for CAE and Proficiency Martin Hewings is considered one of the best grammar books for advanced levels. This book provides the necessary amount of grammar that is tested in exams SAE and CPE.
Each of the 25 sections consists of several parts: an introduction to the topic through listening to audio, an explanation of grammatical phenomena and exercises for practicing and checking.
At the end of each section there is always a test with exam tasks similar to those you will encounter when taking the SAE and CPE. Screening tests may include a reading module, a listening module (sometimes alternating), a grammar test and a creative task ( writing)
In the book Cambridge Grammar for CAE and Proficiency The problem areas are wonderfully presented; in the theoretical part they are highlighted with a “!” By paying attention to them, you can avoid mistakes in the exam. The rules themselves are given in great detail, but in simple language, and with typical British precision. It is also very valuable to have numerous examples of academic vocabulary on typical exam topics.
Keys, a grammar guide and transcripts of audio recordings for three CDs are all included. The simplicity with which it is made textbook "Cambridge Grammar for CAE and Proficiency", is in no way compatible with the seriousness of the information that is in this directory.
Book "Cambridge Grammar for CAE and Proficiency" can be used not only in preparation for exams, but also as a desk reference if your level Upper-Intermediate or Advanced .
The best English textbooks for children
It is believed that children learn faster and better foreign languages, so introducing them to learning English from childhood is very good idea. But, if you’ve read the article, you know that you need to explain grammar to a child completely differently than to an adult.
What grammar books for children Is it worth purchasing to interest a child?
Grammar Friends
Grammar Friends textbook with interactive CD-ROM for junior classes(ages 6 to 12 years) provides an opportunity to practice English grammar skills and improve English language proficiency
Manual for schoolchildren Grammar Friends (Oxford University Press, 2009) is a textbook with which children will definitely find a common language with English grammar!
The author of these books is Tim Ward. Tim Ward), who was tasked with developing additional course on grammar for your favorite series of textbooks Family and Friends 1-7(author Naomi Simmons). And he did it simply brilliantly!
Step-by-step grammar presentations in Grammar Friends 1-7 present the education, use and content of the structures in such a way that even a beginner can easily understand and remember what they read.
Exposure to familiar contexts and situations using basic vocabulary allows students to focus on learning grammar rules.
Sections for repetition of material provide additional practice, which allows you to consolidate the acquired knowledge on the covered topic. There is also a disk containing additional exercises and tests for even more independent practice at home.
Main features of Grammar Friends 1-7:
- a clear step-by-step explanation of grammar for primary schoolchildren and a detailed elaboration of the acquired knowledge;
- effective study of the grammatical structure of language in various contexts, using the example of everyday life situations;
- this manual can be confidently combined with other benefits;
- sections for consolidating acquired knowledge and additional practice;
- additional exercises and test tasks on an interactive CD-ROM to motivate, inspire students, and develop independence!;
- The teacher's book contains teaching materials, including answers and tests.
Textbook Grammar Friends helps to gain confidence in the knowledge acquired, written exercises that move from easier to more difficult provide reinforcement of students' knowledge.
Picture grammar for children
Colorful illustrations in the textbook Picture grammar for children starter will not let your child get bored and he will want to return to this textbook again
Picture Grammar for Children from the publisher Macmillan is a lively and vibrant series of textbooks of 5 books for beginners. The textbook is fun and easy to use, and makes learning easy and relaxed, even when used alongside any other course.
The grammar is presented in an original and engaging way, with plenty of vocabulary-rich topic spreads, followed by a variety of skill-building exercises. The game aspect, which is important when teaching children, is fully present in the textbook.
Key features of Picture Grammar for Children are:
- Vocabulary and grammar are introduced side by side in meaningful contexts;
- Highly illustrated topic sections are carefully selected to reflect student interests;
- there is a balance between exercises that the student does under the supervision of the teacher and those that allow students to use the language creatively;
- sections for self-control provide an opportunity to consolidate knowledge and its further application;
- Students can work through textbook sections in order or in any order they choose.
Textbook Picture grammar for children The child will definitely like it. Despite the fact that the tasks are formulated in English, you should not worry that the child may not understand what he needs to do.
The colorful illustrations in the textbook will not let your child get bored and he will want to return to this textbook again and again.
Grammar Goals
The Grammar Goals textbook has examples of exam tasks that will help you better prepare for PET
Grammar Goals from Macmillan ELT is a new six-level English grammar course for children aged 6 to 12 years.
Excellent illustrations, simple and clear explanations of grammatical phenomena, interesting examples selected taking into account the age characteristics and interests of students, and a variety of exercises turn learning grammar into an exciting activity!
Benefit for each level Grammar Goals 1-6 is divided into 10 sections and involves not only the grammatical side of the language, but also regional studies and simply interesting for children. This textbook also has examples of exam tasks and will teach your child to write emails, articles and even resumes according to the rules.
The tasks in each section are presented at three levels of difficulty Bronze, Silver and Gold, which not only increases student motivation, but also contributes to the development of such universal educational activities, such as planning, reflection, self-control and self-assessment.
First three levels Grammar Goals 1,2,3 can serve as an effective additional grammar aid to any primary school course, levels 4–6 can be used as an additional aid in grades 5–7.
Main features of the Grammar Goals textbook:
- a carefully constructed system of exercises is ideal for working in groups with students of different levels;
- exam-type tasks allow you to use the manual as an initial stage of preparation for final certification at school or for international level exams Starter–B1 ;
- the format of the tasks promotes the development of critical thinking and meta-subject skills;
- special attention is paid to the development of skills in writing, namely the ability to write an email, story, personal letter, write a description, etc.;
- The CD-ROM for each textbook contains 50 additional interactive exercises; The CD-ROM for the level 1–4 textbooks includes a picture dictionary.
Rest assured, textbook Grammar Goals with its logical sequence of tasks, it will be an excellent assistant in English lessons in the wilds of English grammar.
The Grammar Lab
The three-level textbook "The Grammar Lab" contains unique illustrations by children's artist Corky Pavel
Course "The Grammar Lab"(Oxford University Press), designed for learning English as a foreign language for children aged nine to twelve years.
The textbook covers elementary and intermediate levels, and consists of three books. By Kenna Burke Kenna Bourke) considers both possibilities of its use: in the classroom during lessons with a teacher and independently. Each student book is accompanied by a teacher book.
However The Grammar Lab 1-3 is not a full-fledged textbook, it only supplements the grammar with more detailed examples, explanations and exercises. You can use the sections of the book in any order, depending on the topic that interests you.
The attractive characters and their funny dialogues easily attract children. Beautiful illustrations by children's artist Corky Pavel make the books attractive and funny.
Main characteristics of The Grammar Lab textbook:
- Each chapter covers a different grammar topic;
- Teaches grammar rules in short, easy steps;
- Each stage is followed by simple exercises;
- Availability of footnotes and exercises for repetition;
- Lots of written and oral exercises, with the ability to write directly in the textbook;
- All vocabulary is used in context.
To decide whether this textbook is right for you, you need to work with it for a month. And perhaps it is precisely The Grammar Lab will be the best grammar book for you.
Download the best books for learning English on your own
If you plan to study with an e-book, then the best option- download its digital copy.
Modern publishing houses have already realized that it is impossible to fight Internet piracy, so they have long digitized their the best grammar books in .pdf format and post them online for downloading for a low fee.
The quality of digitized textbooks is ideal, which cannot be said about scanned books, but the benefits are the same. If you wish, you can always print the manual and work with it as with a regular textbook.
Some still prefer a digital version of their favorite book so that it is always at hand anywhere. We have already written about where you can read books online in an article, and today we will tell you about sites where you can download English grammar textbooks without registration.
Allen.me
On the Alleng.me website you can download English grammar textbooks and other fiction in English.
On the website Alleng.me you can find grammar books and not only.
This resource has a huge database of English language textbooks, ranging from textbooks for children to manuals for preparing for international exams.
In order to download the textbook you do not need to register.
Ego4u
You can download grammar textbooks on the Ego4u website without registration
The English-language resource Ego4u offers not only grammar books without registration, but also interactive English exercises.
English Grammar Online provides you with materials for successfully mastering the English language. On the left you can select the category you need and practice.
In the Grammar section you can find and download some types of textbooks. The site is also interesting because it provides you with a dictionary so that you do not need to open other resources.
Finally
We tried to choose for you the best English grammar textbooks, of course, this is not a finite list! Remember that grammar is the most important aspect in learning English.
It takes a lot of time to master it, but a good textbook or reference book will a good helper in this difficult matter.
In the following articles we will tell you which sites you can use to practice your knowledge of English grammar and where to prepare for taking international exams.
In contact with
English grammar is a set of rules that relate to prepositions, various parts of speech, types of English verbs and their tenses, members of sentences, and so on. In a word, everything that allows you to make statements from individual words is English grammar.
Articles
Articles have no analogues in the Russian language. They are used with nouns to show the specificity or uncertainty of the thing being talked about.
There are 3 types of articles:
- Zero article or lack thereof
Example: Books make people smart. - Books make people smarter.
- The indefinite article a or an, which is used when talking about the subject as a whole, there is no need to focus on a specific thing. The indefinite article is also used when a thing is mentioned for the first time in speech. If the noun or adjective that describes it begins with a consonant, the article “a” is used, and if it begins with a vowel, “an” is used.
Examples: Could you give me a pen? - Could you give me (any) pen? We watched an amazing film yesterday. - Yesterday we watched an amazing film.
- The definite article the, used with specific objects.
Example: I want to put on the dress you gave me. - I want to wear the dress you gave me.
Nouns
In English grammar, the rules for using nouns as parts of speech have much in common with the rules of Russian grammar.
- They are also divided into proper and common nouns.
Examples Own: Russia (Russia), Ann (Anna).
Common nouns: a toy (toy), a house (house). - Can vary in numbers, forming plural using the ending -s (-es).
Examples: pencil (pencil) - pencils (pencils), face (face) - faces (faces).
- They have cases, although their number is limited to only two.
Common case - base/dictionary form
Example: Have you heard the news? -Have you heard the news?Possessive case (apostrophe + s)
Example: I’m sure it was Jim’s idea. - I'm sure it was Jim's idea. - They can perform the roles of all members of the proposal.
Subject: The story made me cry. - This story made me cry.
Circumstance: We are going to London tomorrow. - Tomorrow we are going to London.
Addition: He has borrowed some money. - He borrowed some money.
However, according to the rules of grammar in English, nouns cannot be masculine, feminine or neuter, as in Russian. They are not divided by gender.
Pronouns
Pronouns in English are divided into 9 subgroups, but the most popular are rightfully personal pronouns. They change according to cases, tenses and numbers:
They have no idea you like her. - They don't suspect that you like her.
We told him everything. - We told him everything.
You know me better than anyone else. - You know me better than anyone.
Verbs
The verb (verb) in English grammar is one of the main parts of speech.- A verb can be personal or impersonal.
Personal verbs include those verbs that change according to persons, numbers and tenses. They can be used in both active and passive voices.
Examples
We learned a lot of new things. - We learned a lot of new things.
The task should be done.- The task must be completed.Impersonal ones include:
Gerund - V-ing
Example: I heard you singing. - I heard you sing.Infinitive - initial form (to V)
Example: They want to go home. - They want to go home.Participle 1 - V-ing
Example: Having learned the truth, we couldn’t believe it. “When we found out the truth, we couldn’t believe it.Participle 2 - V-ed for regular verbs or changing the root of the word for irregular ones.
Example: Her heart was broken. - Her heart was broken. - A verb can be regular or irregular. Both have 3 forms.
The correct ones are formed as follows:
Infinitive V1 (Infinitive): start (start)
Past Simple V2 (Past Indefinite): start + ed = started
Past Participle V3 (Past participle): start + ed = startedIrregular ones have 3 individual forms in which the root of the word can change:
Infinitive V1 (Infinitive): forgive (forgive)
Past Simple V2 (Past Indefinite): forgave
Past Participle V3 (Past participle): forgiven - Verbs in English grammar, as in Russian, have three moods.
Indicative
Example: We make a contribution to the scientific development. - We contribute to the development of science.Subjunctive
Example: I wish we made a contribution to the scientific development. - I would like us to make a contribution to the development of science.Imperative
Example: Make a contribution to the scientific development. - Contribute to the development of science. - A separate group of verbs are modal verbs. They are not used independently; their role is to show the speaker’s attitude towards some action.
Some of the most commonly used modal verbs are: should, can, must, have to, need, used to.
You should stop drinking alcohol. - You need to stop drinking.
Every person can achieve everything he dreams about. - Every person can achieve everything they dream of.
All students must wear uniform here. - Here all students are required to wear a uniform.
I have to wake up early on Saturdays. - I have to get up early on Saturdays.
I need you like no one else. - I need you like no one else.
I used to watch this cartoon when I was a child. - (I used to) watch this cartoon when I was a child.
Adjectives
An adjective in English grammar, just like in Russian, denotes a feature of an object and answers the questions “which one?”- Based on their structure, adjectives are divided into 3 groups.
Simple: happy (happy)
Derivatives: there is a suffix or prefix: expressive (expressive)
Complex: two basics or more: six-page (six-page)
- Adjectives are used in three degrees of comparison.
Positive: sad (sad)
Comparative: sadder (sadder)
Excellent: the saddest (the saddest)
Adverbs
Adverbs, like adjectives, also have a descriptive function.
- Places: here (here), there (there), nowhere (nowhere), anywhere (anywhere), inside (inside), outside (outside)
Time: now, then, when, today, yesterday, tomorrow, before, always, rarely, usually )
Measures and degrees: much, little, very, enough, almost, approximately, nearly
Mode of action: fast, slowly, easily, well
- Adverbs can also have degrees of comparison.
Positive: easy (easy)
Comparative: easier (easier)
Excellent: the easiest (easiest)
According to the expression of the sign of action, they are divided into adverbs:
Numerals
Numerals in English grammar occupy the same place as in Russian grammar.
- They are quantitative and ordinal.
Quantitative: one (one), two (two), three (three), four (four), five (five), etc.
Ordinal: first (first), second (second), third (third), fourth (fourth), fifth (fifth), etc.
Starting with the number four, ordinal numbers are formed by adding the ending -th (-eth).
Interjections
In English grammar there is also an independent part of speech, the use of which helps to convey emotions and sensations, namely interjections. Interjections are divided into many groups, but these divisions are conditional.
Examples of interjections: Hurray! (Hurray!), Ouch! (Ouch!), Wow! (Wow!), Hush! (Hush!), Hey! (Hey!), Hist! (Shh!), Hello? (Hello?), Bye! (Bye!).
Functional parts of speech
Unions
They connect the parts of a sentence in English grammar, as well as simple sentences as part of a complex sentence.
- By structure they are divided into:
Simple: and
Derivatives: because (because)
Complex: whereas (while)
Compounds: in order to (in order to)
- By function they are divided into:
Essays
Example: We meet every Monday and learn the rules from a book called Math For Dummies. - We meet every Monday and learn the rules from a book called “Mathematics for Dummies.”
Subordinates
Example: You should learn the language because it’ll help you to find a job in the future. - You should learn the language, as it will help you find a job in the future.
Prepositions
- By structure they are divided into the same groups as unions:
Simple: about (about)
Derivatives: depending on (depending on)
Complex: within
Compounds: instead of (instead of)
In addition to their main purpose, prepositions are always used with some verbs: to wait for, to listen to, to look for, to belong to.
Particles
Particles serve to form phrasal verbs, phrases. There is no exact classification of particles in English.
Examples of particles: along, away, back, by, down, forward, in, off, on, out, over, round, under, up..
Offers
English grammar, unlike Russian, maintains a strict word order in sentences.
- Sentences in English are affirmative, negative and interrogative.
Affirmative:
1. Subject
2. Predicate (semantic verb or auxiliary + semantic)
3. Secondary members of the sentenceNegative:
1. Subject
2. Auxiliary verb
3. Particle not
4. Semantic verb
5. Secondary members of the sentenceInterrogative (general question):
1. Auxiliary verb
2. Subject
3. Semantic verb
4. Secondary members of the sentenceAccording to this scheme, proposals are drawn up at any time.
- English sentences are divided into simple and complex. Complex ones are divided into complex and complex.
Simple
Example: John has many friends. - John has many friends.
Compound
Example: John has many friends, and he likes them very much. - John has many friends and he loves them very much.
Complex
Example: John has many although friends he isn’t really popular at school. - John has many friends, although he is not very popular at school.
Time
There are 12 tenses in English grammar, which are formed from 3 tenses and 4 tenses (aspects):
Is one of the most complex issues in teaching. Anyone learning English naturally tries to master its grammar, relying on knowledge of the grammar of their language. And often difficulties are caused by those grammatical structures that have no analogues in the Russian language. For example, it is difficult for a Russian-speaking student to understand why there are more than a dozen different tenses in the English language, although in Russian we get by just fine with three.
It is in such cases that English grammar comes to the rescue in tables where you can clearly see common features and differences between different grammatical forms. Teachers note that English grammar in tables and diagrams is much easier to remember and subsequently turns out to be easier to use in practice.
So, let's make a table of the nine main tenses of the English language. Before going directly to the table, you need to know a few basic rules that apply to any tense in the English language.
- In any tense of the English language there is auxiliary in addition to main verb (predicate).
- In a negative sentence of any tense, the particle not is added to auxiliary verb and placed in front main verb - predicate.
- In any question of any tense in the English language it is necessary to use auxiliary, which is placed before the subject.
There are three main groups of English tenses:
- Simple (or Indefinite) - simple,
- Continuous (or Progressive) - long,
- Perfect - completed.
Each of these groups has its own
Present - Present,
Past - Past and
Future - Future.
Thus, in our table we get nine tenses of the English language - three tenses in three groups. Let's first consider the three tenses of the group Simple, then Continuous and, finally, Perfect. As you study the tables, pay attention to the common features of each group of tenses, as well as the form of the main verb in the tenses of each group.
English grammar in tables
Group |
Simple |
|||
Time |
Present |
Past |
Future |
|
How is it formed |
1 formverb . (I, you, we, they) |
1 formverb.+ s(es) (he, she, it) |
2 form of verb. |
will + 1 form of verb. |
Auxiliary verb |
do |
do es |
did |
will |
Affirmative form |
They walk in the parkevery day. They walk in the park every day. |
He walk s in the parkevery day. He walks in the park every day. |
They walk ed in the park yesterday. They walked in the park yesterday. |
They will walk in the park tomorrow. They will walk in the park tomorrow. |
Negative form |
They do not walk in the parkevery day |
He do es not walk _ in the parkevery day. |
They did not walk_ in the park yesterday. |
They will not walk in the park tomorrow. |
General question |
Do they walk in the parkevery day? |
Do es he walk _ in the parkevery day? |
Did they walk_ in the park yesterday? |
Will they walk in the park tomorrow? |
Special question |
Where do they walk every day? |
Where do es he walk _ every day? |
Where did they walk _ yesterday? |
Where will they walk tomorrow? |
Description |
Denotes actions that occur regularly, usually and are not tied to the moment of speech. Hint words - every (day, year, week), usually, always, often, etc. |
Indicates an action that happened sometime in the past and the time for its commission has already passed. Hint words - yesterday, last (week, year, month…), ago etc. |
Denotes an action that will occur in the uncertain or distant future. Hint words - tomorrow, next (year, month…) etc. |
Group |
Continuous |
||
Time |
|||
How is it formed |
am, is, are +verb . ing |
was, were + verb.ing |
will + be + verb ing |
Auxiliary verb |
am, is, are |
was, were |
will |
Affirmative form |
They are walk ing in the park now. They are walking in the park now. |
They were walk ing in the park when he saw them yesterday. They were walking in the park when he saw them yesterday. |
They will be walk ing in the park at this time tomorrow. They will be walking in the park at this time tomorrow. |
Negative form |
They are not walk ing in the park now. |
They were not walk ing in the park when he saw them yesterday. |
They will not be walk ing in the park at this time tomorrow. |
General question |
Are they walk ing in the park now? |
Were they walk ing in the park when he saw them yesterday? |
Will they be walk ing in the park at this time tomorrow? |
Special question |
Where are they walk ing now? |
Where were they walk ing when he saw them yesterday? |
Where will they be walk ing at this time tomorrow? |
Description |
Denotes actions that occur at the moment of speech. Hint words - now, at the moment, Look! Listen! etc. |
Denotes an action that occurred at a certain point in the past. Or an action against the background of which another action occurred, which Necessarily must be expressed Past Simple. |
Denotes an action that will occur at a certain moment or period in the future. Hint words - can be combinations of words indicating the future tense and a specific moment - at this time tomorrow, at six o'clock next Friday etc. |
Group |
||||
Time |
||||
How is it formed |
have + 3 formverb . (I, you, we, they) |
ha s + 3 formverb . (he, she, it) |
had + 3rd form of verb. |
will + have + 3rd form of verb. |
Auxiliary verb |
have |
ha s |
had |
will |
Affirmative form |
They have already walk ed in the park. They have already walked in the park. |
He ha s already walk ed in the park. He has already taken a walk in the park. |
They had already walk ed in the park before he came. They had already walked in the park before he arrived. |
They will have already walk ed in the park by 2 p.m. tomorrow. They will already be walking in the park before two o'clock tomorrow. |
Negative form |
They have not walk ed in the park yet. |
He ha s not walk ed in the park yet. |
They had not walk ed in the park yet before he came. |
They will not have walk ed in the park by 2 p.m. tomorrow. |
General question |
Have they walk ed in the park yet? |
Ha s he walk ed in the park yet? |
Had they walk ed in the park before he came? |
Will they have walk ed in the park by 2 p.m. tomorrow? |
Special question |
Where have they walk ed ? |
Where ha s he walk ed ? |
Where had they walk ed before he came? |
Where will they have walk ed by 2 p.m. tomorrow? |
Description |
Indicates an action that has completed and is connected to the present through the result. The place and time of the action is not important. Hint words - ever, never, just, already, yet; since |
Denotes an action that was completed before some point or other action in the past. Hint words - before, by (the time) etc |
Indicates an action that will be completed at some time in the future or before some other action in the future. |
Thus, from these tables it can be understood that each group has a common feature both in the meaning and in the form of the tenses included in it.
- The times of the Simple group are uncertain actions, not associated with any moment.
- The times of the group Continuous are long lasting, process. In form, all tenses in this group use the verb be in the present, past or future, and the ending -ing on the main verb.
- The times of the group Perfect are completed actions, implying a result. All tenses in this group use the verb have in the present, past or future, and the third form of the semantic verb.
Also note that the auxiliary verb will is common to all groups in the form of the future tense.
Present Perfect Continuous, Past Perfect Continuous, Future in the Past Continuous
Long times are not something easy, however, you can delve into their structure if you understand how they are formed and what functionality they perform.
We present to your attention a detailed table that thoroughly reveals the essence of these complex grammatical phenomena. This is a kind of “reminder for dummies”, which helps out when you urgently need to remember a given grammatical rule.
Group |
Continuous |
||
Time |
Present Perfect Continuous |
Past Perfect Continuous |
Future in the Past |
How is it formed |
to form have, has + been a verb is added with " ing" at the end |
modal verb had + been in combination with the verb " ing" at the end |
form would + be with a verb with " ing" at the end |
Auxiliary verb |
to be in Present Perfect( have, has + been) |
to be in Past Perfect( had + been) |
would + be |
Affirmative form |
Eva has been stand ing on this place for 2 days. The translation of the sentence is: Eve stood here for two days. |
Peter had been waiting for this airship for 2 days when it was announced about delay. Translation: Peter had been expecting this airship for 2 days when it was announced that it would be delayed. |
She said they would be working the whole night. It translates as follows: She said they would work all night. |
Negative form |
Eva has not been standing on this place for 2 days. |
Peter had not been waiting for this airship... |
She said they would not be working the whole night. |
General question |
Has Eva been standing on this place 2 days? |
Had he been waiting for this airship for 2 days, when it was announced about delay? |
Did she say they would be working the whole night? |
Special question |
Where has Eva been standing 2 days? |
How long had he been waiting for this airship, when it was announced about delay? |
What did she say, they really would be working the whole night? |
Description |
Used to indicate a process. Indicates an action whose beginning dates back to the past. It continued in the past as well. The end of the process occurred either immediately before the conversation or at the time of the conversation. |
The presence of such a tense in a sentence indicates that the action indicated by the Past Perfect Continuous began and continued in the past. Its ending could also have taken place before some event in the past, or it could not have taken place before some moment in the past. |
Used when talking about some ongoing action in the future. Reception is discussed in the past. Helping words in this case are all day, from..till, during. A peculiarity of sentences with Future in the Past is their structure: in the first part the past simple tense is used, and in the second part the continuous future is used. |
Tables of English tenses help you easily understand the logic of constructing various grammatical structures of the English language and are a good help in doing exercises.
You can apply the acquired knowledge in practice and continue your education on our website. Here you will find all the basic rules, practice applying them in unique exercises, get real pleasure from professionally voiced texts of various levels and be able to choose learning material that is suitable for you.
English grammar exercises
After you have studied the English grammar tables, try doing exercises to consolidate your knowledge.
Complete the sentence with the missing word
Fill in the blanks with suitable words
Put the words in the correct order
Summer go every we usuallyevery camping usually ... summer go every we usuallyevery camping usually ... summer go every we usuallyevery camping usually ... summer go every we usuallyevery camping usually ... summer go every we usuallyevery camping usually ... summer go every we usuallyevery camping usually.
Uncle to year Spain last went my ... uncle to year Spain last went my ... uncle to year Spain last went my ... uncle to year Spain last went my ... uncle to year Spain last went my ... uncle to year Spain last went my ... uncle to year Spain last went my .
“I don’t want to speak intelligently. I want to speak like a lady,” these words belong to Eliza Doolittle, the heroine of Bernard Shaw’s famous play “Pygmalion.”
Eliza may not have wanted to learn to speak correctly, but without grammar she would not have been able to speak at all. We are now talking about grammar as a system of words and syntactic structures inherent in a particular language. Grammar in this sense is “our main asset,” emphasized Eliza’s mentor, Professor Henry Higgins.
But this is not the only definition of grammar. The systematic study and description of a language or group of languages is also grammar, descriptive grammar. Professor Higgins was mainly concerned with just one aspect of it - phonetics, or the study of speech sounds. Henry Higgins recorded the talk of the common people in his notebook- this is a very accurate image of what descriptive grammar is.
And yet, for most, “speaking like a lady” means speaking correctly, as prescribed, speaking in accordance with the linguistic norm. Bernard Shaw spoke about the importance of prescriptive grammar when he wrote in the preface to Pygmalion: “The English do not respect their native language and stubbornly refuse to teach their children to speak it.” It is about the need for a prescriptive approach that Rex Harrison, who played the role of Professor Higgins in the musical “My Fair Lady,” said: “And there are places where our language has already been reduced to nothing. It hasn’t been in use in America for God knows how long!”
Why do we need to learn English grammar?
Grammar is a tool that can be used to describe any language. Grammar gives names to the words and word groups that make up sentences. Already in early childhood we learn to form sentences - grammar native language subject to everyone. Studying English at school, university, with a tutor or at a university, we are faced with the need to once again independently and consciously go through this path. And here we need to have an idea of the types of words and phrases and how they form sentences.
Literate people are more likely to succeed in relationships with the opposite sex
According to an online survey in which 1,700 people took part, 43% of users on dating sites consider a low level of literacy to be a significant disadvantage to attractiveness.
More than a third (35%) say literacy is sexy. The survey also showed that women are more demanding of their partner’s literacy than men (Michael Sebastian, “43 Percent of Singles Say Bad Grammar Is a Turnoff”).
Parts of speech in English grammar
Depending on their function in a sentence, words are assigned to one or another part of speech. There are 8 parts of speech in English. Just by learning their names, you certainly will not become an English grammar professor. But you will have a basic understanding of the English language and will be ready to start reading other articles on our site - and these articles will help you make significant progress in learning English grammar.
Remember: if a sentence consists of one word, only an interjection can act as that word.
Other parts of speech - nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, prepositions and conjunctions - appear in combinations. To understand which part of speech a word belongs to, we must look not only at the word itself, but also at its meaning, place and role in the sentence.
Let's consider three proposals:
- Jim showed up for work two hours late. (Jim showed up at work two hours late).
Here work is what Jim came to work for. - He will not have to work overtime. (He will have to work overtime).
And here work is the action that Jim will carry out. - His work permit expires in March. (His work permit expires in March.)
Finally, here work denotes the attribute of the noun permit.
In the first sentence the word work acts as a noun, in the second as a verb, and in the third as an adjective.
We hope you are not confused yet? Let's see what functions the 8 parts of speech perform in English.
Part of speech |
Main function |
|
noun |
names an animate object, place, or thing |
pirate, Caribbean, ship |
pronoun |
replaces a noun |
I, you, he, she, it, ours, them, who |
expresses an action or state |
sing, dance, believe, be |
|
adjective |
denotes a noun attribute |
hot, lazy, funny |
denotes the attribute of a verb, adjective |
softly, lazily, often |
|
shows the relationship between a noun (pronoun) and other words in a sentence |
up, over, against, for |
|
connects words, parts of complex sentences and |
and, but, or, yet |
|
interjection |
expresses emotions |
ah, whoops, ouch |
NB! Articles (the, a/an) were once considered a separate part of speech. Nowadays they are more often classified as defining words or determinants.
What do we use to build proposals?
TOP 18 grammatical terms with film examples
Brush up on your English grammar with memorable quotes from your favorite movies and show off your knowledge in an interview or exam! We have compiled a “dossier” on 18 of the most common grammatical terms with rather unusual examples:
1. Active voice - Active Voice
A form of a verb that denotes an action performed by the subject (that is, the main character of the sentence, expressed by the subject). In other words, we are talking about how someone does something, produces, accomplishes something, that is, acts actively.
This construction is the opposite of the passive (passive) voice (see below).
“We buy things we don"t need, with money we don"t have, to impress people we don"t like.” |
We buy things we don't need with money we don't have to impress people we don't like. |
It is important to learn how to build big from small: putting words in the correct form and combining them into phrases, arranging parts of a sentence so as to get a meaningful statement. 8556In contact with Classmates |