European Language Matters
European Language Matters
Why do Greek lorries have Metaphorés written on the side? Is it grammatically correct to say 'the best team won' after a football match? What is the difference between manly, male, masculine and macho? Bringing together Peter Trudgill's highly popular columns for the New European, this fascinating collection explores how English has been influenced, both linguistically and culturally, by its neighbouring languages in Europe. English is very much a European language and Trudgill delves in to the rich linguistic legacy that links all European languages. The bite-sized pieces are grouped together in thematically arranged sections, to allow the reader to dip in and out at will, and cover a wide range of topics, from the etymology of words, to illuminating pieces on grammar. Written in an engaging and lively style, and full of intriguing facts about language and languages in Europe, this book will appeal to both language specialists and to general readers with no prior experience.
- Written in an accessible style, these articles will appeal to a wide audience interested in all aspects of language, including social and political issues
- Grouped together in thematically arranged sections to make for easy browsing
- Academic linguists and students will enjoy and benefit from the fact that the book deals with topics and presents information, which in many cases is not widely known, even to specialists
Reviews & endorsements
‘Peter Trudgill’s ability to present such a broad selection of topics in a scholarly and accessible way makes this book an ideal companion for anyone who wants to explore languages and how they work.’ David Crystal, author of The Cambridge Encyclopedia of the English Language
‘Peter Trudgill is one of the world's most eminent sociolinguists, and an outstanding ambassador for the subject within the wider community. His work over many years has transformed our understanding of the social functioning of speech. This collection of essays, originally written for a general audience, display his characteristic linking of accessibility, social commitment, and deep scholarship, and anyone who reads them, however expert, will learn a great deal.’ Jeremy Smith, University of Glasgow
‘… a treasure house offering one serendipitous adventure after another … Highly recommended.’ A. P. Church, Choice Connect
Product details
November 2021Paperback
9781108965927
275 pages
228 × 151 × 16 mm
0.421kg
Available
Table of Contents
- 1. Words
- 2. Food and Drink
- 3. People
- 4. Geography
- 5. Cities
- 6. Countries
- 7. Languages
- 8. Peoples
- 9. Sounds
- 10. Grammar
- 11. Pedantry and Persecution
- 12. Communication
- 13. Sport
- 14. Names.
