The combination of a clearly written survey of the key areas in linguistics, together with analysis of recent problem-based developments in the field, make this book the ideal introduction to applied linguistic studies. There is also a detailed bibliography and a terminological index. This book will be useful to undergraduates, and their lecturers, in the field of linguistics and applied linguistics. It also provides a straightforward guide to the subject for postgraduates studying linguistics as part of courses in English and modern languages; psychology; lexicography; and computer science.