ISBN: 9780521617413

Semantics is the study of meaning in language. This clear and comprehensive textbook is the most up-to-date introduction to the subject available for undergraduate students. It not only e… Plus…

Semantics is the study of meaning in language. This clear and comprehensive textbook is the most up-to-date introduction to the subject available for undergraduate students. It not only equips students with the concepts they need in order to understand the main aspects of semantics, it also introduces the styles of reasoning and argument which characterize the field. It contains more than 200 exercises and discussion questions designed to test and deepen readers' understanding. More inclusive than other textbooks, it clearly explains and contrasts different theoretical approaches, summarises current debates, and provides helpful suggestions for further reading, Examples are drawn both from major world languages, such as Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, Spanish and English, and from minority ones. The book also highlights the connections between semantics and the wider study of human language in psychology, anthropology and linguistics itself. ...an impressively wide-and relatively theory neutral-introduction to the field, whilst maintaining interest and clarity throughout. It is particularly strong in its use of cross linguistic data from a wide variety of languages, which should appeal to those studying linguistics. Undergraduates will find it accessible and engaging, but there is also sufficient content to challenge more advanced students.' Books, [PU: Cambridge University Press]<