Since glasnost, almost every aspect of the Russian language has been affected by social change, from grammar to vocabulary and word formation. This book is the first major analysis in English of these dramatic developments and provides the most up-to-date guide to the contemporary Russian language. The authors focus on radical changes in Russian vocabulary. The language has become inundated by new words, mainly from American English - especially in the field of business and economics, but also in technology, the mass media, fashion, sport and life-style. There are also substantial chapters on development in grammar, word-formation procedures, name changes and the present state of the language. Supported throughout by extracts from contemporary press and literary sources, this is a comprehensive overview of present-day Russian and an essential text for all students and teachers of the Russian language.