Introduction to Linguistics

- Impressions:

Introduction to Linguistics by Cui Xiliang is an excellent textbook for anyone who wants to understand the basic theories and principles of language. Published by Beijing Language and Culture University Press, the book provides a clear and systematic overview of major linguistic fields, including phonetics, grammar, semantics, and pragmatics. The explanations are concise yet detailed, making complex ideas easy to grasp. What makes this book stand out is its strong connection between theory and real language use. It helps readers see how linguistic knowledge applies to everyday communication and to the study of Chinese in particular. I also appreciate the author’s balanced approach, combining traditional linguistic views with modern perspectives. Overall, this book is informative, practical, and thought-provoking — a perfect starting point for students of linguistics and Chinese language education.