Linguistics: Language Contact and the Germanic Languages - by Collin Woode (Hardcover)

About the Book

Linguistics is the scientific study of language and its structure, including the sounds, words, grammar, and semantics used by human beings to communicate. Language contact refers to the interaction between speakers of different languages, leading to linguistic influences. The Germanic languages, a branch of the Indo-European family, have undergone significant changes due to such contact. Historically, contact with Latin during the Roman Empire introduced numerous Latin loanwords into Old High German and other early Germanic languages. The Viking invasions facilitated the exchange between Old Norse and Old English, enriching the English vocabulary and influencing grammar. In more recent times, the widespread use of English as a global lingua franca has led to the incorporation of many English words into other Germanic languages like German, Dutch, and the Scandinavian languages. Additionally, migration and globalization have intensified these interactions, leading to the rise of pidgins, creoles, and hybrid forms. These dynamics demonstrate the fluid nature of languages and the significant role of contact in shaping the evolution of the Germanic language family. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts in the field of language contact. The topics covered herein deal with the core aspects of this field. It will also serve as a reference guide for students and academicians.

Book Synopsis

Linguistics is the scientific study of language and its structure, including the sounds, words, grammar, and semantics used by human beings to communicate. Language contact refers to the interaction between speakers of different languages, leading to linguistic influences. The Germanic languages, a branch of the Indo-European family, have undergone significant changes due to such contact. Historically, contact with Latin during the Roman Empire introduced numerous Latin loanwords into Old High German and other early Germanic languages. The Viking invasions facilitated the exchange between Old Norse and Old English, enriching the English vocabulary and influencing grammar. In more recent times, the widespread use of English as a global lingua franca has led to the incorporation of many English words into other Germanic languages like German, Dutch, and the Scandinavian languages. Additionally, migration and globalization have intensified these interactions, leading to the rise of pidgins, creoles, and hybrid forms. These dynamics demonstrate the fluid nature of languages and the significant role of contact in shaping the evolution of the Germanic language family. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts in the field of language contact. The topics covered herein deal with the core aspects of this field. It will also serve as a reference guide for students and academicians.