In this classic introductory work, Janet Holmes and Nick Wilson examine the role of language in a variety of social contexts, considering both how language works and how it can be used to signal and interpret various aspects of social identity. "The 5th edition of this touchstone book covers the entire gamut of sociolinguistics with enticing illustrations and practical exercises. The world-wide breadth of coverage is matched by approachable language for uninitiated students. The book's new online component provides multimedia examples and interactive exercises that every teacher can use to more fully engage students."Kirk Hazen, West Virginia University, USA "This truly user-friendly text has stood the test of time. It takes variation as the point of departure, with dual foci on the language user and language use. The revised edition contains up-to-date research from an international perspective. The new interactive companion website will further enhance its usability and global appeal."Li Wei, Institute of Education, University College London, UK "My students and I thoroughly enjoyed this textbook. We liked the engaging examples, the well-designed exercises with suggested answers, and the extensive glossary. Now this 5th edition offers even more innovations through its online companion! This is an ideal textbook on sociolinguistics."Phoebe Lin, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong "AnIntroduction to Sociolinguistics has been among the most approachable and yet insightful of all the textbooks on this subject since its first edition in 1992. It is engaging while never shying away from theory - a considerable achievement.The individual speaker is kept in focus, showing with great clarity how important Sociolinguistics is for our understanding of the human experience. This fifth edition maintains the virtues of its predecessors, while ensuring that the reader is bang up to date."Paul Kerswill, University of York, UK