This fourth edition of a popular textbook offers a step-by-step guide through the various levels of language, covering everything students need to know about linguistic frameworks in one volume. Moving in a logical way through the morphological, lexical, grammatical and phonological frameworks of contemporary English, it provides an invaluable introduction to this essential and fascinating topic. Beginning with words, the building blocks of language, Ballard not only investigates their internal structure but also demonstrates how they can be combined into larger units, from phrases, to sentences and beyond. The sound system of language is also explored, with coverage of individual sounds as well as the features of syllable structure and connected speech.

Boasting a brand new chapter on the history of the English language and a wealth of additional exercises, this fully revised and refreshed edition of The Frameworks of English is an essential purchase for all students of English Language and Linguistics.