Refreshed and updated, the fifth edition of this core textbook offers a clear and engaging introduction to the building blocks of the English language, namely its words, sounds and sentences. Assuming no prior knowledge, it combines accessibility with depth, offering detailed explanations of key topics and theories, including variation in vocabularies, the International Phonetic Alphabet and relevance theory in relation to pragmatics. Packed full of exercises to help consolidate learning, and equipped with examples and illustrations throughout, An Introduction to English Language is essential reading for undergraduate students of English language and linguistics and a valuable resource for students and teachers of English as a second or foreign language. This new edition features: - An enhanced text design - Updated examples - Refreshed illustrations - New and improved exercises - Revised further reading lists. The book is divided into three parts, with succinct overviews and clearly-defined learning outcomes at the start of each section, followed by glossaries of technical terms at the end. It is also accompanied by a wealth of online resources, including downloadable PowerPoints, MP3 audio files, MP4 video lectures, and quizzes, further supporting readers in achieving their goals.

This introductory textbook is built around three core topics of linguistic study. It examines phonetics, phonology and English intonation and stress patterns, describes the internal structure and meaning of English words, and introduces sentences.

A breath of fresh air for students and teachers of English and introductory linguistics, this major new textbook is carefully designed as a coursebook for group or individual study. An Introduction to English Language presupposes no prior knowledge of the sounds, words, sentences and meanings of English. Believing that the best way to learn is through listening and doing, the authors have packed this lively book full of worked examples and exercises drawn from a range of discourses to consolidate the student's knowledge, competence and enjoyment of the subject.