Why Do Linguistics?

Book excerpt: What do we need to know about language and why do we need to know it? Providing the essential tools with which to analyse and talk about language, this book demonstrates the relevance of linguistics to our understanding of the world around us. This second edition includes: - Discussion of key areas of contemporary interest, such as neo-pronouns, translanguaging, and communication in the digital arena -Two brand new chapters exploring language and identity, and language and social media - A range of new and international examples - New and updated references and suggested readings - Tasks to aid learning at the end of each chapter - A glossary of key terms. Introducing a set of practical tools for language analysis and using numerous examples of authentic communicative activity, such as overheard conversations, social media posts, advertisements and public announcements, Why Do Linguistics? explores language and language use from a social, intercultural and multilingual perspective, showing how this kind of analysis works and what it can tell us about social interaction. Also accompanied by a new companion website featuring audio, video and other supportive resources for students and teachers, this book will help you to become an informed, active noticer of language.