This Second Edition of The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Language presents a mass of new information and introduces the subject of language to a fresh generation of students and general readers. Probably the most successful general study of language ever published, The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Language covers all the major themes of language study, including popular ideas about language, language and identity, the structure of language, speaking and listening, writing, reading, and signing, language acquisition, the neurological basis of language, and languages of the world. Exposing this work to a new generation of readers, the Second Edition extends the range of coverage to include advances in areas such as machine translation, speech interaction with machines, and language teaching. There is new material on acoustics, physiological concepts of language, and World English, and a complete update of the language distribution maps, language-speaking statistics, table of the world's languages, and further reading. All geopolitical material has been revised to take account of boundary changes. The book has been redesigned and is presented for the first time in full color, with new pictures and maps added. "...a treasure trove to language lovers." Robert MacNeil "Investigates every conceivable corner of the world of language." The Christian Science Monitor "...remarkably accessible...the writing is plain and non-technical..." Toronto Globe and Mail "The quantity and quality of included information is amazing. Composed by an individual, this is a truly unique and monumental reference work." American Reference Books Annual "The book is overwhelming yet inviting; the information ranges from the most basic to the very technical. Even the casual browser couldn't help but be fascinated by the sheer scope of the book and intrigued with the diversity of its subject matter." Elaine R. Goldberg, Kliatt "The most diverse, enjoyable, and thought-provoking encyclopedia on language....ideal for anyone interested in words, speech, writing, and thought, and certain to be a continual point of reference for any writer for years to come. Very highly recommended." Amazon.Com Books A complete revised update, in full colour, of the most successful general study of language ever published.