Language: The Basics

Trask, R.L.

ISBN 10: 041520089X / ISBN 13: 9780415200899

Published by Routledge, 1999

About this Item

Seller Inventory # U9780415200899

Bibliographic Details

Title: Language: The Basics

Publisher: Routledge

Publication Date: 1999

Binding: Soft cover

Condition: Very Good

Dust Jacket Condition: 27987487

Signed: 2/6/2024 12:58:32 PM

Edition: 1707224312.

About this title

Synopsis:

Language: The Basics provides a concise introduction to the study of language. Written in an engaging and entertaining style, it encourages the reader to think about the way language works. New features include:

* a chapter on 'Language in Use' which introduces pragmatics, metaphor, speech and writing and discourse analysis
* a section on sign language
* a glossary of key terms
* an expanded further reading section
Language: the Basics provides an overview for students and anyone who's ever been accused of splitting an infinitive.

From the Author:

Why is the study of language so much fun?
The full title is 'Language: The Basics'. I call this my 'bedtime book', because my then editor told me that her boyfriend was reading the book in bed -- perhaps not exactly what she was hoping for when she commissioned the book. This is not a comprehensive textbook. It is a popular introduction, designed to persuade readers that the study of language is enjoyable and fascinating. How did h-dropping happen? How can the word 'nurse' wreck a social occasion? Do women really speak differently from men? Why is Norwegian two different languages? What are sign languages like? These are the kinds of questions examined in the book. I think you'll like it.