How does the English language work? If you are interested in discovering the answer to this question, then An Introduction to English Language is the ideal place to start. Written in a clear, lively, and easy-to-follow style, this introductory textbook is based around three core topics of linguistic study: WORD: English words, how they fit into sentences, their internal structure, their meaning and how they make up vocabularies for various purposes. SOUND: the sound systems of English, its phonetics and phonology, and English intonation and stress patterns. SENTENCE: English sentence structure and introductory English grammar. Now thoroughly revised and updated, the second edition of this essential guide features: * more examples of regional and social variation from English-speaking communities worldwide, including Africa, America, Australia, the Caribbean, Asia, New Zealand and the UK * extensive chapter glossaries for easy reference and revision * worked examples and further exercises which are now graded so that they increase in difficulty as the student's understanding grows An Introduction to English Language is carefully designed as a course-book for either group or individual study, and it remains the essential text for students and teachers of English language and introductory linguistics.