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How Language Works

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( 1,313 ratings, 114 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
How Language Works by David Crystal is a comprehensive exploration of the intricacies of language. The author delves into topics such as language acquisition, grammar, and communication dynamics, providing insights into how we use language in everyday life. Ideal for those curious about linguistics, the book offers an engaging and informative journey into the wonders of human communication without diving too deeply into technical jargon.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

If you're fascinated by how we communicate and are curious about the intricacies of linguistics, this book could captivate your interest. It delves into the complexities of language, offering insights into how we learn, use, and adapt it across different cultures and mediums. This educational journey might appeal if you enjoy exploring the science behind everyday communication and understanding language's pivotal role in human interaction.

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Features a survey of everything from how sounds become speech to how names work. This work also talks about eyebrow flashes, whistling languages, how parents teach their children to speak, how politeness travels across languages and how the way we talk show not just how old we are but where we're from and even who we want to be.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

"The man is a national treasure" - John Humphrys

In this fascinating survey of everything from how sounds become speech to how names work, David Crystal answers every question you might ever have had about the nuts and bolts of language in his usual highly illuminating way. Along the way, we find out about eyebrow flashes, whistling languages, how parents teach their children to speak, how politeness travels across languages, and how the way we talk shows not just how old we are but where we're from and even who we want to be.

How Language Works takes the reader on an engaging journey through the intricate and often surprising aspects of linguistics, making it an essential read for anyone curious about the fundamental nature of human communication.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780141015521

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 29 March 2007

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd

Illustration: Yes

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 27.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 355g

Pages: 512

About the Author

David Crystal is Honorary Professor of Linguistics at the University of Wales, Bangor. He has published over ninety books, most recently The Stories of English, and is the editor of The Penguin Encyclopaedia. In 1995, he was awarded the OBE for services to the English language. He lives in Holyhead, Anglesey.

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