In this classic introductory work, Holmes and Wilson examine the role of language in a variety of social contexts.It is an essential introductory text for all students of sociolinguistics and a splendid point of reference for students of English language studies, linguistics and applied linguistics. "This excellent and accessible textbook is tried and tested. I have used it for undergraduate courses in Europe and Asia for more than 20 years with great success. The 6th edition discusses even more languages and countries, and each chapter includes a methodology section which will help students engage in sociolinguistic research." Hans Ladegaard, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, China "For those (students or laypersons) fascinated in the role, functions, forms, and uses of language - and policies relating to them - in our (and others') social worlds, then this is the introduction for you. It is uniquely reader-friendly with global examples of a myriad of concepts central to Sociolinguistics, aligned with intriguing exercises (and their answers) that ensure complete understanding and mastery."? Howie Giles, University of California, USA & University of Queensland, Australia