This bestselling textbook provides an engaging and user-friendly introduction to the study of language. Assuming no prior knowledge of the subject, Yule presents information in bite-sized sections, clearly explaining the major concepts in linguistics and all the key elements of language. This eighth edition has been revised and updated throughout, with major changes in the chapters on Origins, Phonetics, Syntax, Semantics, Pragmatics, Discourse Analysis, First and Second Language Acquisition and Culture. There are forty new study questions and over sixty new and updated additions to the Further Readings. To increase student engagement and to foster problem-solving and critical thinking skills, the book includes over twenty new tasks. The online resources have been expanded to include test banks, an instructor manual, and a substantial Study Guide. This is the most fundamental and easy-to-use introduction to the study of language.