"The French-Speaking World" explores a wide range of sociolinguistic issues relating to the French language and its role in societies around the world.
Opening with a look at the diversity of the French-speaking world, Rodney Ball examines the function of French in particular countries and regions, including Switzerland, Belgium and Canada. He explores its status in relation to other languages and its role in intercommunity relations. The study continues with a focus on individual language features such as regional speech forms, the differences between written and spoken French, the "social meaning" of different styles and levels of language, and French used by immigrants. The final section is an exploration of recent developments in the French language, particularly in France itself.