The Cambridge encyclopedia of language

Book

The Cambridge encyclopedia of language / David Crystal.

Crystal, David, 1941- (Author).

Summary:

Where did human language come from? How many languages are there? How do we acquire our first language or learn a second one? The highly acclaimed Cambridge Encyclopedia of Language by David Crystal answers these and other questions about language. From hieroglyphics to trucker talk, from Shakespeare in pidgin to sneezing in Tongan, this is a stimulating and richly illustrated guide to the variety, structure, history and theory of language. David Crystal not only conveys the intrinsic fascination of the subject, but also its enormous complexity. The visual dimension of the encyclopedia throws a fresh light on what has traditionally been treated as a non-visual subject, with many drawings, photographs, maps, display boxes and extracts all integrated within the text. In addition, appendices, meticulous cross-referencing and indexing ensure that this is an authoritative work of reference for students, professionals and general readers alike.--Publisher description.

Record details

ISBN: 0521264383
ISBN: 9780521264389
ISBN: 0521424437 (pbk)
ISBN: 9780521424431 (pbk)
Physical Description: vii, 472 p. : ill. (some col.) ; 28 cm.
Publisher: Cambridge [Cambridgeshire] ; Cambridge University Press, 1987.

Content descriptions

General Note:: Includes indexes.
Bibliography, etc. Note:: Bibliography: p. 448-452.
Formatted Contents Note:: Popular ideas about language -- Language and identity -- The structure of language -- The medium of language : speaking and listening -- The medium of language : writing and reading -- The medium of language : signing and seeing -- Child language acquisition -- Language, brain, and handicap -- The languages of the world -- Language in the world -- Language and communication.