An Introduction to Language Files

Since its inception thirty years ago, the Language Files has grown from a collection of materials designed simply as a supplement for undergraduate courses into a full-fledged introductory textbook. The scope of the text makes it suitable for use in a wide range of courses, while its unique organization into instructor-friendly files allows for tremendous flexibility in course design.

The Language Files was originally the idea of Arnold Zwicky, who was among its first authors. Since the first edition, many editors have contributed to the development of the Language Files; the current edition is the result of this cumulative effort.


Changes in the Current Edition


In honor of the publication of this 10th edition, we have incorporated a number of major changes. These are outlined below and divided in the following way: first, we introduce new tools for using the book; second, we give an overview of the global contentful changes; finally, we present a list of specific changes by chapter.


New Tools for Using the Book



Global Contentful Changes

Additionally, the following changes affect particular chapters.


Chapter 1: Introduction



Chapter 2: Phonetics



Chapter 3: Phonology



Chapter 4: Morphology



Chapter 5: Syntax



Chapter 6: Semantics



Chapter 7: Pragmatics



Chapter 8: Language Acquisition



Chapter 9: Language Storage and Processing



Chapter 10: Language Variation



Chapter 11: Language Change



Chapter 12: Language Change



Chapter 13: Language and Culture



Chapter 14: Animal Communication



Chapter 15: Language and Computers



Chapter 16: Practical Applications