An Introduction to Language Description

Author/creator Rhoades, John Author
Format Electronic
Publication InfoNewcastle upon Tyne : Cambridge Scholars Publisher Bristol : ISD [Distributor]
Description192 p.
Supplemental ContentFull text available from Ebook Central - Academic Complete
Subjects

Summary Annotation This book introduces the basic systems of language, and examines how these can be investigated and described. The systems of organizing speech sounds (phonology), meaning (lexical semantics), and grammar (morphology and syntax) are described, along with methods of figuring these out for other languages. The text will foster a deep appreciation in the reader of the fact that language is patterned and that these patterns can be discovered. To this end, problems using actual language data are presented so that the reader can apply the methods described in the book. In a sense, An Introduction to Language Description is a workbook in linguistic analysis where the reader can actually get involved in dealing with language data. Suggested solutions are provided following the exercises. The book has an anthropological outlook with a focus upon usage, not correctness. Further, language structures are not presented as abstract puzzles divorced from actual human speech communication. Throughout each chapter, references are made to humans speaking and choosing among structural elements. This is designed to ground the presentation in the realities of speech; a reality that each reader shares as a language user.
Access restrictionAvailable only to authorized users.
Technical detailsMode of access: World Wide Web
Genre/formElectronic books.
ISBN9781443853576
ISBN1443853577 (Trade Cloth) Active Record
Standard identifier# 9781443853576
Stock number01436906

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