Mark Forsyth

Mark Forsyth is a British author and journalist who is best known for his witty books on English grammar, etymology, and lexicography. He has also written a number of other works covering topics such as classical music and politics.

Forsyth was born in London and attended Oxford University, graduating in 2003. After university, he worked as a copywriter, a job which saw him write copy for TV commercials, magazine articles, and the Oxford English Dictionary. It was during this period of his life that he first began to take an interest in the history of the English language,

Forsyth wrote his first book, The Etymologicon, in 2011. The book is a witty and engaging exploration of how the English language has evolved over the centuries. Forsyth draws on examples from both common usage and obscure sources in order to draw out fascinating and often unexpected connections between words. For example, the phrase “selling like hot cakes” likely evolved from “selling like hot pot” which dates back centuries!

Forsyth followed Etymologicon with a number of other books. In 2013, Forsyth released The Horologicon: A Day’s Jaunt Through the Lost Words of the English Language. This book takes a ‘word of the day’ approach, exploring each word’s definition, etymology, and practical usage. In 2014, he released The Invisible History of the Human Race and, in 2018, The Fish Musketeers: The Story of the Pacific Salmon and the Remarkable Ways We Connect with Them.

Forsyth has also appeared on a number of TV and radio shows to discuss his books. He has been a guest on ABC News Breakfast and Late Night Live and has given talks at the universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Forsyth has also written articles for publications such as The Guardian, The Times, and The Spectator.

In addition, Forsyth is a co-owner of the literary magazine, The Idler. Founded, in 1993 by Forsyth and three friends, The Idler is an independent magazine dedicated to discussing the arts, literature, and philosophy.

Mark Forsyth has become one of the UK’s leading authorities on English grammar, etymology, and lexicography thanks to his hilarious, informative, and accessible books. His work has been praised by critics and readers alike, and he continues to share his knowledge and insights through articles, talks, and other media.