LANGUAGE IN SOCIETY

Scope & Guideline

Fostering Interdisciplinary Dialogue on Language

Introduction

Welcome to the LANGUAGE IN SOCIETY information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of LANGUAGE IN SOCIETY, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0047-4045
PublisherCAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1972 to 2024
AbbreviationLANG SOC / Lang. Soc.
Frequency5 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressEDINBURGH BLDG, SHAFTESBURY RD, CB2 8RU CAMBRIDGE, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'Language in Society' focuses on the intricate relationship between language and social dynamics. It explores how language both reflects and shapes social identities, ideologies, and power structures across diverse contexts. The journal emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, incorporating methodologies from linguistics, sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies.
  1. Sociolinguistic Variation:
    The journal extensively covers the study of how language varies and changes in different social contexts, examining factors such as ethnicity, class, gender, and age.
  2. Language and Identity:
    A core area of focus is the exploration of how language constructs and conveys identity, including studies on ethnic, cultural, and gender identities.
  3. Language Policy and Politics:
    The journal frequently addresses the implications of language policies and their socio-political contexts, including issues of language rights, multilingualism, and language education.
  4. Discourse Analysis:
    It employs discourse analysis to investigate how language is used in various social interactions, including media, politics, and everyday communication.
  5. Cultural and Social Dynamics:
    The journal explores the interplay between language and broader cultural and social phenomena, such as globalization, migration, and digital communication.
  6. Critical Perspectives:
    There is a strong emphasis on critical approaches to language, examining power relations, ideologies, and issues of inequality and social justice.
Recent publications in 'Language in Society' reflect emerging themes and trends that are capturing the interest of researchers. These themes highlight the evolving landscape of sociolinguistic studies, particularly in relation to contemporary social issues and technological advancements.
  1. Translanguaging Practices:
    There is a growing interest in translanguaging as a framework for understanding multilingual practices, particularly in educational and community contexts, emphasizing fluid language use.
  2. Digital Discourse and Communication:
    The impact of digital communication on language use and social interaction has gained prominence, with increasing studies on social media, online discourse, and digital identity.
  3. Raciolinguistic Perspectives:
    Emerging research is focusing on the intersections of race and language, exploring how raciolinguistic ideologies shape social interactions and identity construction.
  4. Language and Mental Health:
    The exploration of language in therapeutic contexts, particularly in relation to mental health and identity, is becoming a significant area of inquiry.
  5. Globalization and Language Change:
    Research is increasingly examining how globalization influences language practices, identity, and social dynamics, particularly in urban and migrant contexts.
  6. Climate Change and Language:
    New studies are beginning to address the relationship between language, discourse, and environmental issues, reflecting the growing importance of climate change in sociolinguistic research.

Declining or Waning

While 'Language in Society' has maintained a robust focus on various themes, certain areas of research appear to be declining in prominence over recent years. This may reflect broader trends in sociolinguistic research and shifting interests within the academic community.
  1. Traditional Dialect Studies:
    Research focused on traditional regional dialects has seen a decline, possibly as newer methodologies and interests in urban multilingualism and globalization take precedence.
  2. Static Language Policies:
    There is less emphasis on prescriptive language policies and more on dynamic, context-sensitive approaches to language use and policy, indicating a shift away from rigid frameworks.
  3. Historical Linguistics:
    The journal has published fewer studies centered on historical linguistics, suggesting a waning interest in diachronic analysis in favor of synchronic, contemporary sociolinguistic phenomena.
  4. Language Acquisition Models:
    The focus on traditional models of language acquisition has diminished, possibly due to the emerging focus on social interaction and the role of context in language learning.
  5. Single-Language Studies:
    There appears to be a reduced emphasis on studies that focus solely on single languages, as interdisciplinary and multilingual approaches gain traction.

Similar Journals

Language Policy

Exploring the Intersection of Language and Power
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 1568-4555Frequency: 4 issues/year

Language Policy is a prestigious journal published by Springer, dedicated to the critical examination of language policy across various sociopolitical contexts. Since its inception in 2003, it has rapidly evolved into a leading platform, currently holding a Q1 status in both Linguistics and Language and Sociology and Political Science categories as of 2023. Nestled in the Netherlands, this journal aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue, providing insights into the intricate relationships between language, culture, and governance. With a commendable impact factor and an impressive ranking in multiple Scopus categories, it is particularly valuable for researchers and professionals seeking to explore current trends and emerging issues in language policy. The journal does not offer open access, ensuring high academic standards and curation of quality research while appealing to a broad audience of academics and industry practitioners. Explore the multifaceted world of language policy through rigorous analysis and impactful studies presented within Language Policy.

Sociolinguistic Studies

Connecting Theories, Cultures, and Languages
Publisher: EQUINOX PUBLISHING LTDISSN: 1750-8649Frequency: 3 issues/year

Sociolinguistic Studies, published by EQUINOX PUBLISHING LTD, is a premier academic journal dedicated to advancing the understanding of language in its social context. With an ISSN of 1750-8649 and an E-ISSN of 1750-8657, this journal plays a vital role in the fields of linguistics, sociology, and political science, offering a platform for interdisciplinary research that bridges diverse theoretical frameworks and methodologies. Since its inception in 2008, the journal has remained committed to publishing high-quality research that contributes to the critical engagement with sociolinguistic phenomena globally. With a categorization of Q3 in both Linguistics and Language and Sociology and Political Science as of 2023, and notable Scopus rankings reflecting its intellectual contribution, Sociolinguistic Studies is essential for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to explore the intricate relationships between language, society, and identity. Although open access is not currently available, the journal's scholarly impact continues to grow as it shapes contemporary discussions in sociolinguistics through rigorous peer-reviewed articles.

JOURNAL OF ENGLISH LINGUISTICS

Illuminating the Path of Linguistic Scholarship
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 0075-4242Frequency: 4 issues/year

JOURNAL OF ENGLISH LINGUISTICS, published by SAGE PUBLICATIONS INC in the United Kingdom, is a premier scholarly journal dedicated to advancing the field of linguistics through a rigorous exploration of the English language. With its ISSN 0075-4242 and E-ISSN 1552-5457, this quarterly journal boasts an impressive impact factor and maintains a notable standing within the academic community, evidenced by its Q1 ranking in Linguistics and Language. Its rich history, covering publications from 1967 to 2024, ensures that it remains an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike, fostering critical discourse and innovative research in English linguistics. While the journal is not open access, it offers a wealth of valuable insights and cutting-edge findings that are vital for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of language structure, usage, and evolution. For those seeking to stay at the forefront of linguistic scholarship, JOURNAL OF ENGLISH LINGUISTICS represents an indispensable cornerstone in the field.

GEMA Online Journal of Language Studies

Advancing the Frontiers of Language Research.
Publisher: PENERBIT UNIV KEBANGSAAN MALAYSIAISSN: 1675-8021Frequency: 4 issues/year

GEMA Online Journal of Language Studies, published by Penerbit Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, is a prominent open-access journal dedicated to advancing research in the fields of Linguistics, Language, and Literature. Since its inception in 2001, the journal has been committed to providing a platform for scholarly articles that push the boundaries of knowledge and foster dialogue among professionals, researchers, and students alike. With its impressive impact reflected in the 2023 Q1 category rankings in both Linguistics and Language as well as Literature and Literary Theory, GEMA has established itself as a leading authority, achieving a notable rank of #17/1106 in its fields on Scopus, reflecting its high percentile of 98. The journal spans an extensive range of topics relevant to language studies, emphasizing integration and innovation from 2009 to 2024. Researchers looking to disseminate their findings or keep abreast of the latest developments will find GEMA an invaluable resource in the pursuit of academic excellence and a deeper understanding of language dynamics.

Language-Culture and Society

Illuminating the Interplay Between Words and Worlds
Publisher: JOHN BENJAMINS PUBLISHING COISSN: 2543-3164Frequency: 2 issues/year

Language-Culture and Society is a premier academic journal dedicated to advancing the understanding of the intricate relationships between language, culture, and society. Published by the esteemed John Benjamins Publishing Co in the Netherlands, this journal has quickly established itself as a leading platform since its inception in 2019, achieving a notable Q1 ranking in Linguistics and Language as of 2023. With a focus on interdisciplinary studies, Language-Culture and Society invites researchers, practitioners, and students to contribute and explore themes such as linguistic diversity, cultural identity, and communication practices. Despite being a non-open access publication, the journal provides unparalleled access to high-quality research articles that significantly impact the fields of linguistics and social sciences. The journal's robust Scopus rankings, placing it in the top percentiles of both Arts and Humanities and Social Sciences categories, underline its importance and relevance in contemporary linguistic discourse. Join the expanding community engaged in scholarly discussion through this vital resource, bridging the gap between theoretical insights and practical applications in today's multilingual societies.

Language and Intercultural Communication

Enriching Perspectives in Language and Intercultural Studies
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1470-8477Frequency: 4 issues/year

Language and Intercultural Communication is a leading peer-reviewed journal published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, based in the United Kingdom. With an ISSN of 1470-8477 and an E-ISSN of 1747-759X, this esteemed publication has established itself as a vital resource in the fields of Communication and Linguistics, boasting an impressive Q1 classification in both categories as of 2023. The journal's scope encompasses a broad range of topics related to language and its role in intercultural contexts, making it an essential platform for researchers, professionals, and students alike who wish to contribute to and learn from the latest scholarly discussions. Even without an open-access option, its high impact factor and strong Scopus rankings, which place it in the 87th percentile for Linguistics and Language, affirm its significance in shaping contemporary dialogue. As we move towards 2024, Language and Intercultural Communication continues to foster academic exchanges that challenge, expand, and enrich understanding across diverse linguistic and cultural landscapes, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of language and culture.

Language Problems & Language Planning

Unraveling the Threads of Communication and Planning
Publisher: JOHN BENJAMINS PUBLISHING COISSN: 0272-2690Frequency: 3 issues/year

Language Problems & Language Planning is a pivotal scholarly journal published by John Benjamins Publishing Co, renowned for its contributions to the fields of linguistics, communication, and language studies. With an ISSN of 0272-2690 and an E-ISSN of 1569-9889, this journal has been a cornerstone of academic discourse since its inception in 1977 and will continue to serve as a vital resource until 2024. Currently, it holds a respectable position within the Q3 category in both Communication and Linguistics and Language, reflecting its significant impact in these areas. The journal focuses on the intersection of language-related challenges and planning, addressing critical issues that affect societies worldwide, making it essential reading for researchers, policymakers, and students alike. Although it does not offer Open Access options, its articles provide valuable insights supported by a rigorous peer-review process, fostering a diverse dialogue among scholars and practitioners. Recognized in the Scopus rankings, Language Problems & Language Planning offers a platform for original research and theoretical discussions that advance understanding of language issues in a globalized world.

LANGUAGE SCIENCES

Advancing Knowledge in Language and Cognition
Publisher: ELSEVIER SCI LTDISSN: 0388-0001Frequency: 6 issues/year

LANGUAGE SCIENCES, published by Elsevier Science Ltd, stands as a prominent journal in the field of linguistics and language studies. With an impressive impact factor that solidifies its reputation, it holds a Q1 ranking in both the linguistics and language categories for 2023, reflecting its excellence and relevance in cutting-edge research. Since its inception in 1979, this journal has evolved to encompass a wide range of interdisciplinary studies, providing a platform for innovative research that addresses the complexities of language use, acquisition, cognition, and social interactions. The journal is hosted in the United Kingdom and features rigorous peer-reviewed articles that contribute significantly to both the academic community and practical applications in language-related fields. With access options tailored for a diverse range of readers and contributors, LANGUAGE SCIENCES invites scholars, students, and professionals to engage with its comprehensive body of work and contribute to the ongoing discourse in linguistics.

Language Matters

Advancing Knowledge in Linguistics and Language
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1022-8195Frequency: 3 issues/year

Language Matters is a prestigious journal dedicated to the dynamic field of Linguistics and Language, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd in the United Kingdom. With an ISSN of 1022-8195 and an E-ISSN of 1753-5395, this journal serves as an essential platform for scholars seeking to explore the multifaceted relationships between language and society. Recognized in the 2023 Category Quartiles as Q2 in Linguistics and Language, it boasts impressive Scopus rankings, sitting at #298 out of 1088 in the Arts and Humanities category and #356 out of 1167 in Social Sciences, highlighting its significant impact on the field with a 72nd and 69th percentile ranking, respectively. The journal's scope encompasses a wide range of topics including language acquisition, sociolinguistics, and psycholinguistics, making it a vital resource for researchers, educators, and students alike. By not offering open access, it maintains a curated selection of high-quality peer-reviewed articles, ensuring that academic rigor and relevance are upheld for its readership. With a publication range spanning from 1993 to 2024, Language Matters continues to shape conversations and advance knowledge in the ever-evolving landscape of linguistic research.

Journal of Language and Sexuality

Advancing Conversations on Language and Sexuality
Publisher: JOHN BENJAMINS PUBLISHING COISSN: 2211-3770Frequency: 2 issues/year

Journal of Language and Sexuality, published by John Benjamins Publishing Co, stands at the forefront of interdisciplinary research in the fields of Anthropology, Gender Studies, and Linguistics. With an ISSN of 2211-3770 and an E-ISSN of 2211-3789, this esteemed journal has quickly gained prominence, achieving a prestigious Q1 ranking in its categories as of 2023. Covering diverse topics that intersect language with sexual identity and expression, it serves as a critical platform for scholars and practitioners alike, fostering dialogue and exploration of contemporary issues surrounding language use in the context of sexuality. Despite not offering open access, the journal is indexed in Scopus, underscoring its relevance and rigorous academic standards, making it an essential resource for anyone involved in the research of language and societal constructs from 2019 through to 2024. Positioned in the Netherlands, the journal continues to cultivate a global audience keen on advancing knowledge in this vibrant area of study.