A Glossary of Sociolinguistics (review)

Writing a notice of a glossary is inherently different from a text in many aspects, not the least of which is that it is not designed to be read cover to cover. Nevertheless, it was enlightening to do so while checking the breadth of coverage by flipping around looking for terms that each entry suggested to me. Thus the areas most important to comment on are the scope of coverage across the text and the quality of information in each entry.

Trudgill’s stated goal is to provide definitions for a wide range of terms extending beyond the key areas of sociolinguistics, an objective he undoubtedly accomplishes. His direct and sometimes enthusiastic prose provides comprehensible definitions for those with only a peripheral knowledge of the field; however, the glossary is also useful for those with more experience as he defines terms that may differ from country to country. In addition, he provides a rich source of references to fundamental studies in sociolinguistics.

T provides a great deal of cross-referencing of terms as well as noting the origin of many of them. The cross-referencing is extensive, though better for some areas than others (this criticism applies to whatever specialty the reader has—noting terms she or he would want included). This is not a serious criticism in that it is impossible to satisfy everyone. Nevertheless, there are some interesting gaps. For example, in the section on creoles, there is only a single cross-reference for creole genesis, which is bioprogram, although relexification does appear in the glossary. More significant, however, is that the founder principle is not to be found cross-listed or otherwise. Most of the definitions I found to be fairly complete, though a few are lacking significant information; for example Ebonics is defined simply as a ‘journalistic’ term and has no reference to ebony or phonics.

Some language examples are included as well as alternate spellings of language names. However, examples are more likely to come from European languages than from elsewhere. This eurocentric slant is also found in the descriptions and maps. Maps indicating the locations of speakers included seven of Europe, two of the US, one of Australia, but no others. It is also interesting to note the difference in the scope of coverage given to Europe compared to elsewhere; for example, Franco-Provençal gets almost a full page with many facts and examples, whereas the coverage on Appalachian is limited to two sentences that are light on content. This is not to say that all European varieties were given extensive coverage, but that the coverage is noticeably unbalanced. On a positive note, there is a good set of entries for the more prominently studied varieties from all over the world.

Overall, this very reasonably priced book is an excellent addition to any library. It is also a mustbuy for any new students of the field as well as for those whose research occasionally crosses over into sociolinguistics.