This book investigates the historical development and inherent limitations of grammatical precision in linguistic theory. Geoffrey Sampson, a noted linguist, examines how the pursuit of exact grammatical rules has evolved and explores the boundaries of what can be achieved through such precision. The work analyzes key linguistic frameworks and their attempts to codify language, ultimately questioning the feasibility and desirability of absolute grammatical exactitude.

This work is recognized as a significant contribution to linguistic scholarship, particularly for its critical examination of grammatical theory. Scholars likely appreciate its detailed historical overview and its nuanced argument regarding the inherent constraints on achieving perfect grammatical precision. The book is expected to appeal to academics and advanced students in linguistics and related fields.