Different creatures roam the planet, and each species has a developed language system for communication. We, humans, have been gifted with the best of this communication system, by which we can speak and understand different dialects. And over time, the human language has evolved to the point where courses are taken to understand the concept. This study is referred to as linguistics.
Linguistics is a study that’s beyond learning how to speak a language. Instead, we’re talking about a course that provides a deep insight into the relationship between language and behavior. The study revolves around a deeper understanding of sounds, words, sentences, and meaning.
If you need to learn how to get started on linguistics, here are the books for you to get your hands on.
In the Land of Invented Languages: Adventures in Linguistic Creativity, Madness, and Genius
What better way to kick off this list than with a journey through the centuries? This Arika Okrent’s text takes us through the years as we discover how over 900 languages were invented; these languages aim to overcome the long-dreaded curse of Babel. Discover languages like Babm, Loglan, and many others as you scroll through the pages of this text curated for word geeks and language lovers.
The Power of Babel: A Natural History of Language
Today, we have over 6000 languages, each distinct from the others. However different they are, each of these languages still stems from the roots of the first language spoken by man. So, in this book, John McWhorter invites you to soak in the variety that language offers. Rather than view language as a fixed, unchanging concept, we’re told to see it as an entity with life and dynamism.
Through the Language Glass: Why the World Looks Different in Other Languages
When we study any given concept, there’s an unending curiosity about its origin. Only after we’ve grasped the basis of linguistics can we begin to embrace it fully. While various linguists have agreed that languages are all the same, there’s something else they believe in that author Guy Deutscher doesn’t. And that’s the theory that our languages do not affect our mindset. Grab a copy to find out how he describes the way languages mold and shape our lives.
Linguistics For Dummies (1st Edition)
by Rose-Marie Dechaine, Strang Burton and Eric Vatikiotis-Bateson
Have you ever thought of getting a full course lecture from a book? That’s exactly what Linguistics For Dummies offers. If you wish to know how languages are constructed, shaped, transformed, and implemented into life, then a copy of this book is an excellent place to start. Start now and grasp the origin and science behind the language. Unlock your love for the spoken word with a good read of this book.
On Language: Chomsky’s Classic Works Language and Responsibility and Reflections on Language in One Volume
by Noam Chomsky and Mitsou Ronat
When describing Noam Chomsky, the word intellectual is the first on people’s lists. For instance, the New York Times describes him as “arguably the most important intellectual alive”. And so it’s no surprise that Noam has made a name for himself through his writings on politics and language.
But with many influential writings, picking one to start will be quite the task. However, On Language contains Noam’s two most popular and inspiring books in one volume, making it an excellent place to start.
The Unfolding of Language: An Evolutionary Tour of Mankind’s Greatest Invention
Some argue that the wheel is man’s best invention. Others make a case for sliced bread. However, one will forever be grateful for the invention of language unless we discover that language wasn’t invented. That’s right, we’ve added another work from Guy Deutscher, and you can expect nothing less than a thrilling read.
From the book, we learn of the evolution from the primitive Tarzan-ish speech to the exquisite language we know and speak right now. However, this evolution is still ongoing, and trust Guy to uncover all you need to know about the forces of the creation of human communication.
Languages of the World (3rd Edition)
If there’s anything we’re sure of, languages are distinct and specific to different regions. However, this doesn’t mean that our languages aren’t intertwined. In the same vein, language can be utilized in tracing back the origin of different people and cultures. As such, Languages Of The World offers a beginner’s guide through the diverse nature of language and how this diversity is reflected in today’s world.
The Little Book of Lost Words: Collywobbles, Snollygosters, and 86 Other Surprisingly Useful Terms Worth Resurrecting
Have you ever wondered how to incorporate historic words into modern life? Well, look no further, as the little book of lost words has everything you need to transform your speech into a vintage mode of communication. Learn to use words like dew-dropper and snuggery to replace the more common terms you use to describe lazy individuals who love Netflix and chill. Ever heard of the words fizgig and groke? Yeah, you definitely need to read this book.
The Pun Also Rises: How the Humble Pun Revolutionized Language, Changed History, and Made Wordplay More Than Some Antics
Recently, the use of puns to depict wit is often met with little recognition and immediate dismissal. If you’re a pun lover or a seasoned punter, you’ll want to keep the fire burning and prove that puns are still relevant for good humor and conversations. Thankfully, John Pollack has written a book explaining puns’ significance to human communication. And who better demonstrates the relevance of puns than a former world pun champion?
Linguistics: A Complete Introduction: Teach Yourself (Ty: Complete Courses, 1st Edition)
We all want to have the tools we need to learn a skill in one place. And linguistics is the same as we won’t mind a book that offers everything we need to understand human communication fully. This book offers you college-like teaching that broadens your knowledge of the basics of linguistics.
And there you have the best linguistics books to add to your cart this year. And if you’re searching for where to get your hands on these books at affordable rates, head over to BookScouter for the best deals.
