An Introduction to Chinese Linguistics
Chan Lü author Zev Handel author
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Cambridge University Press
Published:18th Jun '26
Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back
A student-centred introduction to the fundamental components of Chinese linguistics and essential tools for linguistic analysis.
Written primarily for undergraduate students in Chinese linguistics, language, and related fields, this accessible and engaging textbook provides valuable insight into the features of the Chinese language in both contemporary and historical contexts. Key concepts and perspectives are introduced and reinforced using thoughtful pedagogical tools.Grounded in descriptive linguistics, this textbook introduces the basics of the major subfields of linguistics, as well as the Chinese writing system, for students with no prior linguistic training. It presents the Chinese language from the perspective of both modern linguistics and its longstanding philological legacy, as well as providing historical and sociolinguistic context. Chapters cover phonology and phonetics, morphology, lexicon, lexical semantics, syntax, sign language and braille. Authentic, real-world examples are drawn from Chinese newspapers, websites, and social media to facilitate meaningful linguistic analysis, while other examples contrast English and Chinese to help students grasp key concepts. Students will also benefit from the robust pedagogical approach, which includes learning objectives, guiding questions, checkpoint summaries, discussion questions, exercises, further readings, and bilingual glossaries. Supplementary resources provide answers to exercises, sample course syllabi, links to resources, and recordings of sounds.
'This engaging and accessible textbook covers a wide range of topics in Chinese linguistics, blending general linguistic principles with vivid, memorable examples. Its well-structured chapters, featuring learning objectives, guiding questions, comprehensive exercises, and additional resources offer thoughtful support for both learners and native speakers. It makes teaching effortless, and I would happily adopt it in my courses.' Karen Huang, University of Auckland
'Featuring vivid, humorous, and up-to-date examples drawn from newspapers and social media, along with abundant exercises and stimulating discussion prompts, this textbook is exceptionally friendly to both instructors and learners. It seamlessly integrates general and Chinese linguistics, and its organization, beginning with aspects of modern Chinese linguistics and extending to historical and dialectal perspectives, makes it a genuinely enjoyable read.' Zhiying Qian, Florida State University
'Grounded in current scholarship, An Introduction to Chinese Linguistics is highly accessible and engaging to anyone, regardless of their knowledge of either Chinese or linguistics. The authors have done well to provide a broad and insightful analysis of the many different areas that linguistics covers, providing great insights, from contemporary grammar to old Chinese phonology. A perfect introduction to the subject or long-term reference for students, scholars, and beyond.' Justin Winslett, University of Sheffield
'This book offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction to Chinese linguistics. In addition to the expected subfields such as phonology, morphology, and syntax, it also introduces Chinese sign language and braille. The learning objectives and exercises provided in each chapter make the book an excellent resource for instructors and students.' Lan Zhang, University of Memphis
ISBN: 9781009381628
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: 714g
416 pages