Language Files is an introductory linguistics textbook that offers a comprehensive overview of the fundamental concepts and theories in the field of linguistics. The book is written by a team of linguists led by the authors, Department of Linguistics faculty members at The Ohio State University.

The authors of Language Files are known for their expertise in various subfields of linguistics, including phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and sociolinguistics. The book is designed to be accessible to students with no prior background in linguistics, while still providing a rigorous introduction to the field.

The book is divided into thirteen chapters, each of which covers a different aspect of linguistics. The first chapter provides an overview of the field and introduces key concepts and terminology. Subsequent chapters cover topics such as the sounds of language, word formation, sentence structure, meaning, and language variation.

Throughout the book, the authors use examples from a wide range of languages to illustrate linguistic concepts and theories. In addition, each chapter includes exercises and discussion questions that encourage students to think critically about the material.

Overall, among the best books on linguistics, Language Files is an excellent resource for anyone interested in linguistics, whether as a student or a general reader. With its clear explanations, engaging examples, and comprehensive coverage of the field, this book is sure to be a valuable addition to any linguistics library.

Author: Department of Linguistics

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Language-Files-Materials-Introduction-Linguistics/dp/0814252702/

Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 stars (from 504 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #81,262 in Books

#3 in Linguistics (Books)

#62 in Linguistics Reference

On Language is a classic work by renowned linguist and philosopher Noam Chomsky, first published in 1998. The book is a collection of essays that reflect on Chomsky's influential contributions to the study of language, as well as his broader political and philosophical ideas.

Noam Chomsky is a world-renowned scholar who has made significant contributions to the fields of linguistics, psychology, philosophy, and political activism. He is widely regarded as the founder of modern linguistics and is best known for his theory of generative grammar, which posits that language is an innate ability of the human mind. Chomsky's work has had a profound impact on the study of language, cognition, and the nature of human knowledge.

In On Language, Chomsky explores a wide range of topics related to language, including its origins, acquisition, and evolution. He also delves into the political and social implications of language use, such as the role of language in propaganda, media control, and political discourse. The essays in this book offer a comprehensive and engaging overview of Chomsky's theories and ideas, making it an essential read for anyone interested in linguistics, psychology, philosophy, or political science.

Overall, On Language is a thought-provoking and insightful collection of essays that showcases Chomsky's vast knowledge and intellectual curiosity. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of language, cognition, and the nature of human thought.

Author: Mitsou Ronat ,Noam Chomsky

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Language-Chomskys-Classic-Responsibility-Reflections/dp/1565844750/

Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from 239 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #126,090 in Books

#7 in Linguistics (Books)

#127 in Linguistics Reference

#183 in Modern Philosophy (Books)

"The Study of Language" by George Yule is an essential textbook for anyone interested in exploring the complex and fascinating world of human language. Yule, a renowned linguist and academic, has created an engaging and informative introduction to the field of linguistics that is accessible to both students and general readers.

George Yule is an Emeritus Professor in the Department of Linguistics at the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. He has written numerous articles and books on various topics in linguistics, including pragmatics, discourse analysis, and language teaching. Yule is known for his clear and concise writing style, which is evident in "The Study of Language."

In the introduction to the book, Yule sets out to answer the fundamental question: What is language? He provides a comprehensive overview of the different ways in which language can be studied, from a scientific perspective. He explains how linguistics is concerned with understanding the structure, function, and acquisition of language and introduces the key concepts and terminology used in the field.

Yule's approach to teaching linguistics is both practical and engaging. He includes a variety of real-world examples and activities to help readers understand the concepts and theories presented in the book. The chapters cover topics such as the sounds and structure of language, meaning, pragmatics, language acquisition, and language variation and change.

Overall, "The Study of Language" is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the complex and fascinating world of language. Yule's clear and concise writing style, combined with his wealth of knowledge and expertise, make this book an essential addition to any linguistics student or language enthusiast's library. It is among the best books on linguistics.

Author: George Yule

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Study-Language-George-Yule/dp/1108730701/

Ratings: 4.7 out of 5 stars (from 421 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #179,920 in Books

#26 in Linguistics (Books)

#210 in Linguistics Reference

Linguistics is the scientific study of language, its structure, and its evolution. It examines how humans use language to communicate with each other, how language is learned and processed, and how it changes over time. If you're interested in linguistics, but don't know where to start, then "Linguistics For Dummies" by Rose-Marie Dechaine is the perfect book for you.

Rose-Marie Dechaine is a professor of linguistics at the University of British Columbia, Canada. She has been teaching and researching linguistics for over 25 years and has published numerous articles and books in the field. In "Linguistics For Dummies," she shares her expertise in a way that is accessible to anyone interested in linguistics, whether you're a student, a language enthusiast, or just curious about how language works.

The book starts by defining key concepts in linguistics, such as phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics. It then explores different approaches to language study, including historical, social, and cognitive linguistics. Throughout the book, Dechaine provides examples from a variety of languages to illustrate linguistic concepts and theories.

Among the best books on linguistics, "Linguistics For Dummies" also covers topics such as language acquisition, language variation, and language change. It explores how language is used in different contexts, such as in conversation, in writing, and in the media. The book also discusses the relationship between language and culture, and how language reflects and shapes our worldviews.

Whether you're interested in linguistics as a field of study or just want to learn more about how language works, "Linguistics For Dummies" is an excellent resource. It provides a clear and engaging introduction to linguistics that will leave you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the complexity and richness of language.

Author: Eric Vatikiotis-Bateson , Strang Burton ,Rose-Marie Dechaine

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Linguistics-Dummies-Rose-Marie-Dechaine/dp/1118091698/

Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from 213 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #237,547 in Books

#44 in Linguistics (Books)

#310 in Linguistics Reference

#427 in Language Arts Teaching Materials

"Linguistics: A Very Short Introduction" by P.H. Matthews is a concise and informative guide to the fascinating field of linguistics. Matthews is an esteemed scholar of linguistics, having taught the subject at the University of Cambridge for over 30 years. He is also the author of numerous publications, including the influential textbook "Morphology," which has been widely used in linguistics courses around the world.

In "Linguistics: A Very Short Introduction," Matthews offers an accessible overview of the core concepts of linguistics, including phonetics, phonology, syntax, and semantics. He also delves into the history of linguistics, tracing its evolution from ancient times to the present day, and explores the ways in which linguistics intersects with other disciplines, such as psychology, anthropology, and computer science.

The book is written in an engaging and approachable style, making it an ideal resource for anyone interested in the study of language. Matthews uses clear and concise language to explain complex concepts, and he includes numerous examples and illustrations to help readers understand the material.

Overall, "Linguistics: A Very Short Introduction" is an excellent introduction to the field of linguistics, providing readers with a solid foundation in the key concepts and ideas that underpin the study of language. Whether you are a student of linguistics or simply curious about the subject, this book is an essential resource for gaining a deeper understanding of the complexity and beauty of human language.

Author: P. H. Matthews

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Linguistics-Introduction-P-H-Matthews/dp/0192801481/

Ratings: 4.2 out of 5 stars (from 163 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #367,509 in Books

#74 in Linguistics (Books)

#579 in Linguistics Reference

#2,085 in Foreign Language Reference

Don't Believe A Word is a fascinating book that explores the surprising and complex nature of language. Written by David Shariatmadari, a linguist and journalist, the book delves into the intricacies of language, from its ability to shape our thoughts and emotions, to its power to deceive and manipulate.

Shariatmadari begins by exploring the ways in which language can shape our perceptions of reality. He discusses how language can influence the way we think about things, and how it can even shape our emotions and beliefs. He then moves on to examine the ways in which language can be used to deceive and manipulate, from the use of euphemisms and jargon to more sinister tactics such as propaganda and hate speech.

Throughout the book, Shariatmadari draws on a wide range of examples and case studies to illustrate his points. He examines everything from the evolution of language over time, to the ways in which different cultures and societies use language in different ways. He also discusses some of the more controversial aspects of language, such as the use of profanity and the relationship between language and power.

Overall, Don't Believe A Word is a thought-provoking and engaging exploration of language and its many nuances. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the power of words and how they shape our world.

Author: David Shariatmadari

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Believe-Word-Surprising-Language/dp/1324004258/

Ratings: 4.4 out of 5 stars (from 172 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #209,162 in Books

#47 in Translation Reference

#223 in Grammar Reference (Books)

#256 in Linguistics Reference

Babel: Around the World in Twenty Languages by Gaston Dorren is a fascinating exploration of the world's most prominent languages. The author takes readers on a linguistic journey, exploring the nuances, complexities, and peculiarities of each language. In this book, Dorren examines twenty languages, from English to Mandarin, French to Arabic, and beyond, delving into their history, structure, and cultural significance.

Gaston Dorren is a linguist and journalist who has written extensively about language and culture. He is the author of several books, including Lingo: A Language Spotter's Guide to Europe and Babel: The Language Magazine. Dorren's passion for language is evident in his writing, as he weaves together history, linguistics, and cultural anecdotes to create a rich and engaging narrative.

In Babel, Dorren takes readers on a global tour of language, exploring not only the languages themselves but also the cultures and people behind them. The book is divided into twenty chapters, each focusing on a different language, and each chapter is packed with fascinating insights and anecdotes.

From the grammatical quirks of Japanese to the cultural significance of Arabic calligraphy, Dorren's exploration of each language is both informative and entertaining. Along the way, readers will learn about the evolution of languages over time, the influence of geography and politics on language, and the ways in which language shapes our understanding of the world.

Babel is a must-read for anyone interested in language, culture, or global communication. It is considered one of the best books on linguistics. Dorren's engaging writing style and vast knowledge of language make this book a joy to read, and readers are sure to come away with a deeper appreciation for the power and beauty of language.

Author: Gaston Dorren

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Babel-Around-World-20-Languages/dp/1781256411/

Ratings: 4.4 out of 5 stars (from 200 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #661,313 in Books

#8,380 in Words, Language & Grammar (Books)

#13,778 in Humor (Books)

The First Word: The Search for the Origins of Language, written by Christine Kenneally, is a fascinating exploration of one of the most fundamental aspects of human existence: language. In this book, Kenneally delves into the complex and mysterious origins of language and offers a comprehensive overview of the latest scientific research on the topic.

Christine Kenneally is an Australian journalist and author who has written extensively about science, technology, and language. Her work has been featured in numerous publications, including The New Yorker, The New York Times, and Scientific American. In The First Word, Kenneally draws on her deep understanding of linguistics and her passion for language to offer readers an engaging and informative exploration of the origins of human communication.

In the introduction to the book, Kenneally sets the stage for her investigation by discussing the longstanding fascination humans have had with language. She notes that despite the fact that language is such an integral part of our daily lives, we still don't fully understand how it came to be. Kenneally goes on to discuss the many theories that have been put forward over the years about the origins of language, from the idea that it was a divine gift to the belief that it evolved gradually over time.

The First Word is a must-read for anyone interested in the origins of human language and the evolution of communication. Kenneally's engaging writing style and thorough research make this book an accessible and thought-provoking read for both experts in the field and casual readers.

Author: Christine Kenneally

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/First-Word-Search-Origins-Language/dp/0143113747/

Ratings: 4.3 out of 5 stars (from 102 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #1,149,885 in Books

#610 in Etymology (Books)

#2,464 in Linguistics Reference

#5,506 in Cultural Anthropology (Books)

Is That a Fish in Your Ear? Translation and the Meaning of Everything, written by David Bellos, is a fascinating exploration of the world of translation and its impact on our daily lives. Bellos, a renowned translator, and professor of French and Comparative Literature at Princeton University, delves into the complex and often misunderstood world of translation, offering readers an eye-opening journey into the art of language conversion.

In the book's introduction, Bellos poses a thought-provoking question: "What do we really know about translation?" He challenges readers to look beyond the surface of what they think they know and to consider the intricate and nuanced processes involved in translation. Bellos argues that the act of translation is not simply about converting words from one language to another; it is about capturing the meaning behind those words and conveying them accurately in a different language.

Throughout the book, Bellos provides a range of examples of translation at work, from literary works to legal documents and even subtitles in films. He also delves into the history of translation, exploring the earliest forms of language conversion and the evolution of translation practices over time.

Is That a Fish in Your Ear? is an engaging and thought-provoking book that offers readers a new perspective on the power and importance of translation. Whether you are a linguist, a translator, or simply interested in the world of language, this book is sure to provide you with a fresh and enlightening understanding of this fascinating field.

Author: David Bellos

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0865478570/

Ratings: 4.3 out of 5 stars (from 339 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #976,153 in Books

#271 in Translation Reference

#694 in Low Fat Cooking (Books)

#2,016 in Linguistics Reference

"The Art of Language Invention" is a captivating book written by David J. Peterson, a renowned language creator and linguist. Peterson is best known for his work as the creator of the Dothraki and Valyrian languages for the hit HBO series "Game of Thrones." He is also the founder of the Language Creation Society, a nonprofit organization that promotes the art of language invention.

In "The Art of Language Invention," Peterson shares his expertise and passion for language creation with readers. The book is divided into three parts, each of which covers a different aspect of language invention. Part one delves into the mechanics of language, explaining the basic building blocks of phonetics, grammar, and semantics. Part two explores the process of creating a language, from developing a phoneme inventory to establishing rules for word formation and syntax. Finally, part three discusses the practical applications of language invention, from using constructed languages in fiction and film to creating languages for use in the real world.

The book's introduction sets the stage for what's to come, explaining why language invention is a worthwhile pursuit and how it can enhance our understanding of language and culture. Peterson also emphasizes the importance of authenticity in language invention, stressing that a well-designed constructed language should feel natural and organic.

Overall, "The Art of Language Invention" is a must-read for anyone interested in linguistics, world-building, or creative writing. Peterson's expertise and enthusiasm make this book an engaging and informative read, whether you're a seasoned language creator or a novice interested in exploring this fascinating field.

Author: David J. Peterson

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Art-Language-Invention-Horse-Lords-World-Building/dp/0143126466/

Ratings: 4.7 out of 5 stars (from 451 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #100,321 in Books

#11 in Science Fiction & Fantasy Writing

#85 in Alphabet Reference

#293 in Fiction Writing Reference (Books)