Regarded by researchers as the Bantu Bible, and written by an interntional team of experts, this comprehensive, single-volume volume presents in depth discussions of the historical development and specialized linguistic features of the Bantu languages. New to this edition: * new chapters on syntax, tone, reconstruction and language contact * 12 new sketch grammars * thoroughly updated chapters on phonetics, aspect-tense-mood and classification * exhaustive catalogue of known languages with essential references.