A Comprehensive German Grammar provides an innovative and authoritative reference source for all students of German. Reflecting current teaching practice, the book takes a 'communicative' approach to the subject. It presents German as it is currently used rather than a prescriptive text based around grammatical forms. The author uses the functions of the language as a starting point and associates these with the concepts needed for the student to construct German sentences.The book includes sections on topics such as 'imparting and seeking information', 'getting people to do things' and 'steering and structuring discourse'. The author shows throughout how the standard components of grammar are used to different effect in a range of situations. The volume is based on 'real German,' and examples are culled from authentic text material. These demonstrations of authentic German usage both provide reliable evidence for grammatical statements and allow the student to learn to communicate naturally in German. The book provides a full reference section giving all the information necessary for correct German usage as well as a full index of all words and concepts discussed.A Comprehensive German Grammar will become the standard resource for all students of German.