Product Description

Do you know what 'verlan' or French 'backslang' is? Was President Mitterand 'câblé'? The French language is more than just a tool for communication; it has a crucial role to play in how native speakers of French think about the world and about themselves and their culture. This book helps students develop a systematic 'linguistic' approach to French. It covers the core topics, ranging from the structure and sounds of the language to discourse and everyday conversation. No previous knowledge of linguistics is assumed and a glossary of technical terms and many exercises and activities help reinforce key points. Students will find that their understanding and enjoyment of the French language is greatly enhanced by this book.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #339759 in Books
• Published on: 1997-05-02
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 224 pages

The Linguist
A lively textbook.

Review
A unique and wide-ranging introduction to the structures and use of French language. Written with admirable clarity, it is a 'must' for all students of French linguistics. (Aidan Coveney, Department of French, University of )

A lively textbook. (The Linguist )

To be welcomed as offering a uniquely wide-ranging and stimulating introduction to the French language. (MLR )

Rich array of illustrations...(with) general user-friendliness...the authors succeed in making broad stimulating statements that can be refined, rather than contradicted, in more advanced courses. (French Language Studies )

Customer Reviews

Clear, concise, informative
Extremely useful for a novice student. Almost indispensable!