Ceramics of Sr0.6Ba0.4Nb2O6 (SBN40) were prepared by the conventional mixed oxide route. Sintering at temperatures greater than or equal to 1260 degrees C led to rapid, non-uniform grain growth and a duplex microstructure. Presintering at 1250 degrees C followed by higher temperature sintering (1350-1450 degrees C) controlled grain growth. Rapid cooling from 1450 degrees C froze-in second phases at grain boundaries. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy showed that the resulting grain-boundary phases were Nb2O5-rich and BaO-deficient, having low liquid-formation temperatures. In contrast, SBN40 ceramics prepared with excess BaO and a deficiency of Nb2O5 showed no enhancement of grain growth at the highest temperature. Sintering behaviour and microstructural development provide evidence for the existence of a liquid phase which assists abnormal grain growth. The effect of presintering in controlling grain growth is discussed, and a mechanism for abnormal grain growth in Sr0.6Ba0.4Nb2O6 (SBN40) ceramics is proposed.