"This is an excellent Handbook, providing a sophisticated, yet accessible treatment of a wide range of issues in variationist sociolinguistics. Anyone, from the curious beginner to the seasoned pro, will profit from consulting this book."

Don Chapman, Brigham Young University, USA

Incorporating the wealth of developments in this interdisciplinary and dynamic field over the last decade, this second edition ensures that the Handbook remains the authoritative reference volume on the study and analysis of language variation and change. Seven new chapters have been added, while the remainder have undergone thorough revision and updating to reflect advances and new perspectives in each topic covered.

The Handbook is accessibly structured by theme, covering topics including data collection and evaluation, linguistic structure, language and time, social differentiation, language contact, and language domains. Bringing together an experienced, international editorial and contributor team, it provides an unrivalled learning, teaching and reference tool for researchers and students in sociolinguistics. The volume is also a vital resource for scholars in related disciplines requiring a reliable overview of the central topics and methods in the study of language variation and change. This new edition offers a convenient and accessible repository of essential knowledge that demonstrates the continuing vitality of the discipline.