Words in the Mind: An Introduction to the Mental Lexicon

by Jean Aitchison

Book Overview

This book deals with words, and how humans learn them, remember them, understand them, and find the ones they want. It discusses the structure and content of the human word-store or 'mental lexicon' with particular reference to the spoken language of native English speakers.Since the first two editions of Words in the Mind were published, work on the lexicon has exploded. This is reflected in this new edition, which contains substantial additions...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0631144420
• ISBN13: 9780631144427
• Release Date: January 1987
• Publisher: Blackwell Publishers
• Length: 288 Pages
• Weight: 0.78 lbs.

Customer Reviews

Very complex topic illustrated in a simple to understand way

We've all had the "the word is on the tip of the tongue but I just can't think of it" experience. This book explains the search for understanding of what exactly is going on in your brain as it learns, stores, and selects words from the huge dictionary in your head. The author takes you through the research in a methodical way, raising and then "testing" various theories, explaining them all in very easy to understand language. As you read it, you'll recognize many of your own slips of the tongue and gain a new understanding of how and why they happen.

Review

An amazing book which reveals many truths about the mind. Witty in its demeanour the book is deeper than most philosophies. Help wanted, inquire within.