Language in Society: An Introduction to Sociolinguistics

by Suzanne Romaine
Language in Society: An Introduction to Sociolinguistics cover
Good Books rating 3.67
Language and Linguistics
Technical
  • ID: 1222
  • Added: 2025-10-01
  • Updated: 2025-10-01
  • ISBN: 9780191607028
  • Publisher: OUP Oxford
  • Published: 2000-10-05
  • Reviews: 3

Language in Society delves into the dynamic relationship between language and the societies in which it is spoken, bridging the gap between linguistics and sociology. Suzanne Romaine provides a clear and engaging overview of sociolinguistics, discussing traditional and contemporary issues such as language and social class, gender, education, and the formation of pidgins and creoles. The book is enriched with global examples, illustrating how linguistic choices are influenced by social contexts and how certain ways of speaking gain symbolic significance. This new edition includes updated material on gender studies, the linguistic aspects of ethnic conflict in the Balkans, and the Ebonics controversy in the United States, making it a comprehensive and timely resource for understanding the complex interplay between language and society. Romaine's work emphasizes the constant interaction between language and society, showcasing how our use of language is deeply rooted in social factors. The text is designed to be accessible, making it suitable for both academic and general readers interested in the role of language in shaping and reflecting social structures. By examining a wide range of languages and cultures, the book offers a global perspective on sociolinguistics, highlighting the diversity and richness of human communication.

Reviews
DeepDyve · M. Bowring, R. Carter, A. Goddard, D. Reah · 2002-08-01
comprehensive 3.50

The book is a well-organized introduction to sociolinguistics, with each chapter building on the previous one. It is noted for its comprehensive coverage of the subject.

This review highlights the book's structured approach, with each chapter logically following the previous one to build a comprehensive understanding of sociolinguistics. The reviewers appreciate the depth and breadth of the topics covered, making it a valuable resource for both students and researchers. They also note that the book's clear explanations and examples help to illustrate complex concepts effectively. However, some might find the older editions less relevant due to the evolving nature of the field.

Quick quotes

    The volume is organized into eight chapters: the first seven deal with traditional areas of sociolinguistics.

    A valuable resource for both students and researchers.

    Clear explanations and examples help to illustrate complex concepts effectively.

RACO · A Wylie · 1996-01-01
engaging 3.80

The book reviews several well-known studies on social stratification and linguistic variation. It is praised for its engaging and readable style.

This review focuses on the book's exploration of social stratification and linguistic variation, providing insights into how language reflects and influences social structures. The reviewer appreciates the engaging and readable style, which makes the content accessible and enjoyable to read. The book's coverage of classic studies in the field is particularly noted, offering valuable perspectives for those interested in the intersection of language and society. However, some readers might find the examples used somewhat dated.

Quick quotes

    Reviews several well-known studies on social stratification and linguistic variation.

    An engaging and readable style.

    Provides insights into how language reflects and influences social structures.

Goodreads · 1994-01-01
informative 3.70

The book provides a clear and accessible introduction to sociolinguistics, emphasizing the constant interaction between language and society. It is praised for its lively and engaging style.

This book is often recommended for its ability to make complex sociolinguistic concepts understandable to a wide audience. Readers appreciate the author's lively and engaging writing style, which makes the subject matter accessible and interesting. The book covers a broad range of topics, from traditional areas of sociolinguistics to more recent issues like language and gender, making it a comprehensive introduction to the field. However, some readers might find the breadth of topics means that some areas are not explored in as much depth as they could be.

Quick quotes

    A clear, lively, and accessible introduction to the field of sociolinguistics.

    Emphasizes the constant interaction between language and society.

    Covers both traditional and more recent issues such as language and gender.

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