Guide to Intro Linguistics: Find the Perfect Textbook

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on recommendations for introductory linguistics textbooks suitable for self-study. Key suggestions include the 2001 textbook by Fromkin, which focuses on theoretical linguistics, and Jespersen's work, noted for its rich content despite its age. Users also mention O'Grady, Archibald, Aronoff, and Rees-Miller's "Contemporary Linguistics: An Introduction" as a standard text in top linguistic programs. The discussion emphasizes the importance of exploring multiple resources for a comprehensive understanding of linguistics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of linguistic theories
  • Familiarity with academic research methods
  • Ability to critically evaluate textbooks and academic resources
  • Interest in theoretical linguistics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the textbook "Contemporary Linguistics: An Introduction" by O'Grady et al.
  • Explore online resources and excerpts from the Fromkin textbook
  • Investigate Jespersen's works for historical linguistic insights
  • Look into additional contemporary linguistics textbooks for updated perspectives
USEFUL FOR

Students of linguistics, self-learners interested in language theory, educators seeking teaching materials, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of linguistic concepts.

Shackleford
Messages
1,649
Reaction score
2
I'm looking for a good introductory linguistics textbook. Unfortunately, I'm not able to squeeze a class into my physics degree. Thanks for any recommendations.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
If you are studying on your own, http://books.google.com/books?id=DObARq3r9MoC" will give you plenty of guidance and practice. The authors have their biases and favorite theories, and the book is from 2001, so you will want to browse other books and journals for a broader and updated perspective, but this will do a lot to help you develop the tools to branch out.

Anything by http://bloch.ling.yale.edu/" seemed cool from the little I read of his.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Shackleford said:
Do you know if this is a good book, too?

http://product.half.ebay.com/Language_W0QQtgZinfoQQprZ57203635
Nope. I've never seen it and couldn't find any excerpts.

What do you want to get out of the book? Do you want to do research in linguistics? Do you want a better understanding of language? Do you want some interesting ideas or problems to think about?
 
honestrosewater said:
Nope. I've never seen it and couldn't find any excerpts.

What do you want to get out of the book? Do you want to do research in linguistics? Do you want a better understanding of language? Do you want some interesting ideas or problems to think about?

Well, it's more for intellectual curiosity. I read the first few pages of the Fromkin book online, and I'm probably going to go that route. It describes itself as being a theoretical linguistics book, which coincidentally appeals to me the most.
 
Cool. Come back if you have questions. I still have that book.

If you want to hear some interesting things about language, try to get your hands on Jespersen's http://books.google.com/books?id=1WcXVIgc2bUC". It is not an introduction or an easy read (its being a century old doesn't help). But it is full of jewels.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
honestrosewater said:
Cool. Come back if you have questions. I still have that book.

If you want to hear some interesting things about language, try to get your hands on Jespersen's http://books.google.com/books?id=1WcXVIgc2bUC". It is not an introduction or an easy read (its being a century old doesn't help). But it is full of jewels.
Thank you, you share.
I want download and read it in home, can I download it ?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Sorry I don't see the book must buy before downloadd
 
The std intro text at Stanford and other top linguistic programs is by O'Grady, Archibald, Aronoff and Rees-Miller, Contemporary Linguistics: An Introduction.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 47 ·
2
Replies
47
Views
6K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 39 ·
2
Replies
39
Views
8K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
7K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K