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The study of language
First published 2006 · 420 pages
An accessible, structured exploration of the sounds, structures, and cultural meanings that shape human communication.
What it feels like
Reading this book feels like stepping into a well-organized, brightly lit classroom led by an engaging instructor. The pace is steady and methodical, designed to build a solid foundation in the mechanics of human communication. The mood is deeply intellectual yet highly accessible, inviting readers to satisfy their curiosity about how words, sounds, and meanings intertwine. The prose is clear and comprehensive, structured with helpful study questions and a glossary to guide the learning process. It explores the fascinating intersections of language, culture, and human development, from child language acquisition to slang and gestures. This is a deeply informative experience that will delight students and curious minds eager to understand the fundamental structures of how we speak and connect.
- Mood
- intellectual
- curious
- structured
- Tone
- educational
- accessible
- informative
- analytical
- Pace
- steady
- Themes
- mechanics of communication · cultural expression · human development · linguistic diversity
- The writing
- Clear, comprehensive, and structured for accessibility, featuring study questions and a helpful glossary.
- The arc
- A journey from foundational curiosity to a structured understanding of human communication.
- Who it's for
- Students and curious minds seeking a solid, foundational introduction to the mechanics and cultural nuances of linguistics.
About the book
Unrivalled in its popularity, The Study of Language is quite simply the best introduction to the field available today. It introduces the analysis of the key elements of language - sounds, words, structures and meanings, and provides a solid foundation in all of the essential topics, such as how conversation works, child language, and language variation. This third edition has been extensively revised to include fresh study questions, a comprehensive glossary, and new sections on important contemporary issues in language study, including language and culture, slang, gestures, and African American English.
Description from Open Library.
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