How to Build a Better Vocabulary

by Maxwell Nurnberg, Morris Rosenblum

This is the entrancingly entertaining yet amazingly effective guide that shows you how to know the meaning of words that you have never seen or heard before, learn the history of words so that they come alive for you, master an invaluable and permanent technique of word-viewing within 30 days. This is the one book that makes you love to learn.

Genres: Nonfiction, Language, Reference, Writing, Words

384 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published January 1, 1961

Reviews

[Adrian Alvarez · Rating 3 out of 5]

Despite typographical flaws and dated references and language, this turned out to be a pretty fun read. I decided to read it after getting through Cormac McCarthy's Blood Meridian and realizing I knew nothing about the English language. All in all, having gone through it without the pressure of preparing for a standardized test, I definitely feel my vocabulary has grown (along with my etymological understanding of our language's component parts). I can't say this was a brilliant book (if there is one, please let me know) but I had fun with it.

[Jon Gaide · Rating 3 out of 5]

A sometimes-fun book about words, roots, and etymology. I skipped over the workbook portions, but I enjoyed the light and often humorous style of writing.

I don't know that my vocabulary would get much better without frequently revisiting the book, but it was still interesting. Since it was first written in the 1940s, I think, it's amusing to see words that aren't around anymore. (It suggests that, while we watch a sports match, we might encounter "cunctatious" or "purlieus" from the commentators.)

Wouldn't recommend, but also wouldn't reprimand the authors for having written it.

[Michael David · Rating 5 out of 5]

On average, I am familiar with 75 out of 100 challenging and difficult words, which is something I'm proud of. It's by no means perfect, and I have a lot to improve, but being familiar with many challenging terms will definitely help me speed through my reading.

[Rusty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great resource for expanding word knowledge.

[SHENBAOBAO]

I think this is a gowordsod book that i have read ,it heips me feel easy to learning words

[Steven Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went through this book in the past. I remember it being very good and would like to peruse it again.