A Course in Phonetics

by Peter Ladefoged and Keith Johnson
A Course in Phonetics cover
Good Books rating 4.27
Language and Linguistics
Technical
  • ID: 1215
  • Added: 2025-10-01
  • Updated: 2025-10-01
  • Publisher: Wadsworth Publishing Company
  • Published: 2001-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

A Course in Phonetics provides a thorough introduction to the study of speech sounds, making it accessible to students with no prior knowledge. It starts with the essential technical terms needed for describing speech and introduces transcription symbols, building a strong foundation for further exploration. The book is designed to be both educational and engaging, offering clear explanations and practical examples to help readers grasp the complexities of phonetics. Whether you're a student or simply curious about language, this book is an invaluable resource for understanding the mechanics of speech. This book not only covers the basics but also delves into the various branches of phonetics, including articulatory, acoustic, and auditory phonetics. It emphasizes the importance of transcription and provides detailed guidance on using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). With its structured approach, A Course in Phonetics is ideal for those looking to develop a solid understanding of how sounds are produced, transmitted, and perceived.

Reviews
LoveReading · 2025-10-01
practical 4.20

The book is recognized for its broad overview of phonetics and its practical approach, making it suitable for students with no prior knowledge.

This reviewer appreciates the broad overview of phonetics that the book provides, making it suitable for students with no prior knowledge. The book's practical approach is noted as particularly beneficial, as it builds on the basics and introduces technical terms in a clear and understandable manner. The inclusion of practical phonetic skills and the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is highlighted as a key strength, helping students to apply what they have learned in real-world scenarios.

Quick quotes

    This book offers a broad overview of the branches of phonetics for students with no prior knowledge.

    It builds on the basics, beginning with technical terms and practical phonetic skills including IPA.

    The Seventh Edition introduces concepts of speech production, describes speech in acoustic terms.

Goodreads · 2025-10-01
comprehensive 4.00

The book is noted for its comprehensive presentation and student-friendly approach, making it a valuable resource for both instructors and students.

This reviewer highlights the comprehensive presentation of phonetics concepts in the book, which is combined with a student-friendly writing style. They find the book to be an invaluable resource for both instructors and students, as it introduces complex topics in an accessible manner. The expanded sections on acoustic phonetics and speech motor control are particularly praised for bringing the content up to date and helping students use modern tools for digital inspection.

Quick quotes

    Combining Peter Ladefoged's student-friendly writing style with Keith Johnson's comprehensive presentation.

    Expanded sections on acoustic phonetics and speech motor control bring instructors up to date.

    This best-selling text gets undergraduates painlessly into the subdiscipline of phonetics.

Amazon · 2025-10-01
excellent 4.60

The book is praised for its comprehensive and accessible approach to phonetics, making complex topics understandable. The inclusion of practical exercises and the CD-ROM enhances the learning experience.

This reviewer found the book to be an excellent resource for learning phonetics. They appreciate the clear and student-friendly writing style, which makes even the most complex topics accessible. The practical exercises and the accompanying CD-ROM are highlighted as particularly useful, providing hands-on experience that reinforces theoretical knowledge. The reviewer also notes that the book's organization and structure make it easy to follow, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of phonetics.

Quick quotes

    The sheer amount of learning I did because of this book is bonkers.

    I had never before read a textbook that taught me so much about its topic.

    Phonetics is so understandable with A COURSE IN PHONETICS and its CD!

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