Introducing Semantics

Cambridge Introductions to Language and Linguistics

by Nick Riemer

Semantics is the study of meaning in language. This clear and comprehensive textbook is the most up-to-date introduction to the subject available for undergraduate students. It not only equips students with the concepts they need in order to understand the main aspects of semantics, it also introduces the styles of reasoning and argument which characterise the field. It contains more than 200 exercises and discussion questions designed to test and deepen readers' understanding. More inclusive than other textbooks, it clearly explains and contrasts different theoretical approaches, summarises current debates, and provides helpful suggestions for further reading. Examples are drawn both from major world languages, such as Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, Spanish and English, and from minority ones. The book also highlights the connections between semantics and the wider study of human language in psychology, anthropology, and linguistics itself.

Genres: Linguistics, Nonfiction, Language

Kindle Edition

First published March 1, 2008

Reviews

[Barawe · Rating 2 out of 5]

Me, crying in a corner: But what does mean mean?! You mean! Anyways, exam periods are fun.

[Tuan Do · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was ambivalent to give my rating. The book seemed promised to be a good reading, until 2.2, when I really shocked to find that the length of two parts 2.2.2 Meaning below the morpheme and 2.2.3 Meaning above the word levels are just one page each. I couldn't believe that these two issues with so many provoked questions are treated in that little of details. Kind of disappointed. The remaining of the book is fine though sometimes I was disoriented by the naming of the head points.

[Rupertus Gondobarensis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Used it as the textbook. Strengths and weaknesses could both be found. I suggest using it side by side with Saeed (2015).

[Hope · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was difficult for no reason

[dangerous at every speed · Rating 3 out of 5]

Somewhat weirdly written tbh, inconsistent in structure and examples. Sometimes confusing and poorly written