Questions About Language sets out to answer, in a readable yet insightful format, a series of vital questions about language, some of which language specialists are regularly asked, and some of which are so surprising that only the specialists think about them.
In this handy guide, sixteen language experts answer challenging questions about language, from What makes a language a language? to Do people swear because they don't know enough words? Illustrating the complexity of human language, and the way in which we use it, the twelve chapters each end with a section on further reading for anyone interested in following up on the topic.
Covering core questions about language, this is essential reading for both students new to language and linguistics and the interested general reader.
In this handy guide, sixteen language experts answer challenging questions about language, from What makes a language a language? to Do people swear because they don't know enough words? Illustrating the complexity of human language, and the way in which we use it, the twelve chapters each end with a section on further reading for anyone interested in following up on the topic.
Covering core questions about language, this is essential reading for both students new to language and linguistics and the interested general reader.
Suitable for expert and non-expert readers alike, this book offers accessible, thought-provoking and up-to-date discussions of a range of language-related topics. Engaging with a variety of questions from across the field of linguistics, the expert authors challenge commonly-held assumptions, prompting the reader to reflect on their own language attitudes and practices.
Kate Scott, Kingston University, UK
'The authors strike a commendable balance between the technicalities of their subjects and the need to explain them in ordinary prose. The questions are well chosen and leave few stones unturned... Hopefully it will whet the curiosity of lay readers with an interest in language to continue exploring this fascinating discipline. '
Ross Smith MCIL
Kate Scott, Kingston University, UK
'The authors strike a commendable balance between the technicalities of their subjects and the need to explain them in ordinary prose. The questions are well chosen and leave few stones unturned... Hopefully it will whet the curiosity of lay readers with an interest in language to continue exploring this fascinating discipline. '
Ross Smith MCIL