Japanese Linguistics in Use: An Introduction for Language Learners

Introducing readers to all key areas of Japanese linguistics, this book brings the theory to life through a range of real-world examples of texts and materials that students might encounter in contemporary Japan. Throughout, the author introduces readers to linguistic notions, supporting them to further their understanding of the forms and functions of the language as well as increasing familiarity with social and cultural aspects via examples from manga, newspapers, food packaging, light novels and more. Combining and building on the very best of Japanese Linguistics and Japanese Language in Use, this book covers: · Writing systems · Vocabulary strata · Word and sentence structures and meanings · Figurative language · Language and culture · Speech and thought. It also contains a wealth of new examples not explored in the previous volumes, texts translated from English to Japanese and additional resources including a companion website hosting translations, quizzes and commentaries to the book’s activities.

Table of Contents:
List of Figures List of Tables Preface How to Use this Book Acknowledgements List of Abbreviations 1. What Made Modern Japan? 2. Sound Structure 3. Word Classes 4. Vocabulary 5. Writing System 6. Word Structure 7. Word Meaning 8. Sentence Structure 1: The Basics 9. Sentence Structure 2: Verb Types 10. Pragmatics 1: Explicit Message 11. Pragmatics 2: Implicit Message 12. Discourse 1: Linguistic Devices 13. Discourse 2: Communicative Devices 14. Language and Culture 1: Gender and In/-Out Groups 15. Language and Culture 2: Politeness, Honorifics, Young People and Roles in Language 16. Speech, Thought, Translator References English Index Japanese index

About the Author :
Toshiko Yamaguchi was previously an Assistant Professor at the National University of Singapore, Singapore, and an Associate Professor at the University of Malaya, Malaysia.

Review :
This book on Japanese language use is an inspiration, both for learners and educators. It is filled with stimulating authentic material covering a wide range of genres, featuring state-of-the art images of Japanese language and culture. This stunning book, guided by central concepts in Japanese language, is bound to become an insightful addition to the field of Japanese language learning and teaching. A state-of-the-art Japanese linguistics textbook that brings a rich learning experience to learners of Japanese. A wealth of authentic examples effectively facilitates an in-depth understanding of the Japanese language in discourse and cultural contexts that are natural, accessible and relatable. Japanese Linguistics in Use: An Introduction provides a comprehensive explanation of Japanese linguistics based on authentic texts – texts composed naturally. The book will serve as a useful resource not only for students of linguistics but also for teachers of Japanese as a foreign language.