Book

English Grammar in Use

📖 Overview

English Grammar in Use is a comprehensive English language learning resource first published in 1985 by Cambridge University Press. The book serves intermediate to advanced English learners with its systematic approach to grammar instruction and practice. Each unit follows a clear two-page format, with grammar explanations on the left and corresponding exercises on the right. The content progresses from basic concepts to advanced grammar topics, allowing students to build their understanding systematically. The book includes multiple editions with different features - versions with answer keys, without answer keys, and combinations with digital resources. A diagnostic study guide helps students identify areas for improvement and directs them to relevant units. This text stands as a foundational work in English language education, balancing accessibility with academic rigor to support both independent learners and classroom instruction.

👀 Reviews

Readers consistently rate English Grammar in Use as a practical self-study resource for intermediate English learners. The book maintains a 4.7/5 rating on Amazon (2,000+ reviews) and 4.41/5 on Goodreads (3,800+ reviews). Likes: - Clear explanations with examples from real situations - Self-test exercises with answer key - Visual layout with one grammar point per page - Can be used without a teacher - Systematic organization makes topics easy to find Dislikes: - Some find exercises too basic for advanced learners - British English focus can confuse American English learners - Price point higher than similar grammar books - Paper quality in newer editions not as durable - No pronunciation guidance Common reader comments: "Perfect for filling gaps in grammar knowledge" - Goodreads "Examples are natural and memorable" - Amazon "Good for reference but too simple for IELTS prep" - Reddit "Would be better with more challenging exercises" - Amazon

📚 Similar books

Advanced Grammar in Use by Martin Hewings This book builds upon Murphy's foundation with additional complex structures for C1-C2 level English learners.

Practical English Usage by Michael Swan The comprehensive reference guide presents grammar points through examples and contextual explanations.

Collins COBUILD English Grammar by Collins COBUILD The corpus-based approach provides grammar explanations based on real-world language usage patterns.

Oxford Practice Grammar by George Yule The systematic organization of grammar topics includes practice exercises with increasing complexity levels.

Understanding and Using English Grammar by Betty S. Azar, Stacy A. Hagen The chart-based presentation method breaks down complex grammar concepts into digestible components.

🤔 Interesting facts

🔍 The first edition in 1985 sold over 100 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling grammar books ever published. 📚 Raymond Murphy began his career teaching English in Germany and later worked extensively in Asia, which helped shape his practical approach to grammar instruction. ✍️ The book's unique two-page format was revolutionary at the time and has since been widely imitated by other language learning publications. 🌏 The series has been translated into over 40 languages and is used in more than 60 countries as a standard reference work. 📱 In 2012, the book was adapted into a digital format with interactive exercises and mobile apps, reaching a new generation of tech-savvy learners.