The Big Beasts of English Grammar: An Exploration of Form and Function in Conversations

What do we really know about how the grammar topics that seem to dominate language teaching are used in conversation? In this book, the authors explore some of the ‘big beasts’ of English grammar—those familiar structures like conditionals and reported speech that are often emphasised in syllabuses and textbooks. Drawing on a corpus of conversation data, the book provides new insights into how these structures actually function in real-life conversations, revealing how grammar teaching often overlooks key contextual uses.

Aimed at teachers, researchers, and curriculum designers, the book encourages readers to rethink grammar explanations and instruction. It challenges long-standing rules and assumptions, also offering practical ideas on how to better incorporate grammar into lessons that focus on spoken English. Covering important grammar areas such as modal verbs, quantifiers, and comparatives, it’s a valuable resource for those interested in how grammar operates in real-world dialogue.