Native Grammar: How Languages Work

Learn how grammar works in any language through engaging explanations, clear examples and plenty of hands-on exercises. Seven graded chapters introduce the major properties of words and word classes, including nouns, verbs, pronouns, adjectives, particles and how to put them together. Lots of examples from world languages (Hawaiian, Chinese, Spanish, Navajo, Maltese, Luiseño and more). Learn all about key concepts in the linguistic fields of morphology and syntax, including morphemes and allomorphs, noun cases, pronoun persons, verb tenses, aspects and moods, focus and transitivity, and many others. Interesting examples and informative insights drawn from the careful study of foreign languages. This reference guide offers a unique trip through the world of grammar for enthusiasts of linguistics and students of foreign languages. 28 activities and 6 detailed review tests covering a wide range of languages. Appendix with answers to every exercise and review exam. Glossary with all key terms defined. Maps showing major world language families mentioned in the course. Index.