Overview

First published in 2013. As with its series counterparts, this is an innovative reference guide to the Japanese language, combining traditional and function-based grammar in a single volume. In its two-part structure, Part A covers traditional grammatical categories, such as structural features of the language and the behaviour of parts of speech. With a strong emphasis on contemporary usage, all grammar points are richly illustrated with examples written in a combination of hiragana, katakana and kanji, alongside romanizations and sentence meanings in English.Part B is organised around language functions such as expressing likes and dislikes, giving and seeking information, making decisions and apologising. This function-based presentation is an invaluable guide to the situationally-appropriate use of Japanese for learners at all levels. The two parts of the Grammar are closely linked by extensive cross-references, providing a grammatical and a functional perspective on many patterns in the language. This is the ideal reference grammar for learners of Japanese at all levels, from novice to advanced. No prior knowledge of grammatical terminology is assumed and a glossary of grammatical terms is provided.

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9780415571999

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Reviews

Praise for the series - 'I love these book. The explanations of functions are clear and the workbooks put you in context so you get much more motivated than when you're going through mechanical drills.' -Akiko Furukawa, Reading University, UK For the Japanese Grammar- ‘It is an extremely innovative work in which (1) the form-based and function-based grammar explanations are introduced in a very comprehensive and easy to follow fashion; (2) the explanation of the grammar is very clear and supported by accompanying exercises divided by level of difficulty in the workbook and (3) communication strategies, idiomatic expressions and dialogues, which are as important as the acquisition of the basic forms and functions, are also introduced to help learners develop true proficiency. In short, in my view, the proposed work approaches the learning of grammar in a unique way and is extremely practical, as rightly pointed out by the authors. It is superior to many other grammar books currently available in the market.’ Rebecca Chau, University of British Columbia ‘MJG seems to be a well-conceptualized set of materials that have been carefully constructed with ample example sentences. I recommend its publication.’ Mari Noda, Ohio State University ‘The idea of including both structural and functional explanations in one book is excellent. Students normally need to buy two separate and unrelated books. The idea of cross-referencing within one book is innovative. However, the book will become more attractive if each separate component is more interesting and innovative.’ Shoichi Iwasaki, UCLA Shoichi was concerned that the proposal wasn’t strong enough in content, and had detailed comments and suggestions for improvements– see Author’s response. ‘In summary, the goals of the book are very well thought out. I do think that this book makes a meaningful contribution to language learning or linguistics. However, since there are already excellent reference books on Japanese grammar and pedagogy, MJG must also demonstrate the advantage of its method. So far it has not succeeded.’ Fumiko Nazikian, Columbia University Fumiko felt that there were several areas of concern: lack of contextual information; Part A and B not well coordinated, examples lacking pedagogical considerations. I have talked to Yuki about this and she has taken on board the criticism; she has agreed to pay particular attention to the points highlighted in this review. Please see author’s response to reviews below. Praise for Routledge Modern Grammars - ‘The entire series is outstanding. Why? Because it's totally practical without getting stuck in grammatical obscurities. It reflects the actual, contemporary use of the language as it is used by ordinary, educated speakers.’ - Harold Goodman, author of the Michel Thomas courses

This is a very excellent and comprehensive book on modern Japanese language. It covers almost all the fields of modern Japanese language and it will surely be one of the best guide books on Japanese written in English... This book will be useful for those who are involved in linguistics (Asian languages or Typology), and for those who are interested in the linguistic attitudes or customs of Japanese language, people and society. Naoko Maeda, Gakushuin University, Japan

Author Information

Naomi H. McGloin is Professor of Japanese Language and Linguistics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA Mutsuko Endo Hudson is Professor of Japanese Language and Linguistics at Michigan State University, USA Fumiko Nazikian is Senior Lecturer and Director of the Japanese Language Program at Columbia University, USA Tomomi Kakegawa is Associate Professor of Japanese at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, USA

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