The Germanic language family ranges from national languages with standardized varieties, including German, Dutch and Danish, to minority languages with relatively few speakers, such as Frisian, Yiddish and Pennsylvania German. Written by internationally renowned experts of Germanic linguistics, this Handbook provides a detailed overview and analysis of the structure of modern Germanic languages and dialects. Organized thematically, it addresses key topics in the phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics of standard and nonstandard varieties of Germanic languages from a comparative perspective. It also includes chapters on second language acquisition, heritage and minority languages, pidgins, and urban vernaculars. The first comprehensive survey of this vast topic, the Handbook is a vital resource for students and researchers investigating the Germanic family of languages and dialects.

‘This Handbook provides the reader with a well-informed, up-to-date and well-structured overview of Germanic linguistics, focussing on their structures on different levels, and on their multiple relationships with each other.'

Richard Wiese - Philipps-Universität Marburg, Germany

‘The contributions from specialists yield an in-depth overview of the wealth of fascinating characteristics of the Germanic languages and the linguistic issues they offer for exploration. A must-read for every scholar and student of the Germanic languages!'

Sarah Fagan - University of Iowa

‘This volume collects and crystallizes up-to-date scientific knowledge throughout the field of Germanic linguistics, and makes it available to the whole community. As such, it is a major contribution to the consolidation of a common linguistic culture shared by scholars working on Germanic languages, and accessible to any linguist interested in gaining access to newer research on the family.’

Pierre-Yves Modicom Source: LINGUIST List

‘… The Cambridge Handbook of Germanic Linguistics will be an invaluable resource for generations of students and scholars. I highly recommend this varied and rich volume to every professional in the field.’

Nicoline van der Sijs Source: Canadian Journal of Netherlandic Studies