ABSTRACT
* Covers historical development, grammar, sound system, writing system and sociological factors of the world's major languages and language families * Comprehensive index of languages for ease of access
* Written by internationally recognized specialists in each language
* Includes an introductory survey
`This 1000 plus page reference work would certainly be a useful and impressive acquisition to any linguist's bookshelf ... It is a veritable mine of knowledge concerning language knowledge, and anyone with an interest in this field is bound to find the book a fascinating source of information.' - Language Monthly
`This work has a rare combination of virtues ... it can be recommended as a useful work of reference to which contributions have been made by a large team of scholars.' - Journal of Linguistics
