This handbook fills a significant gap in the range of dictionaries and vocabularies available today. It is a new and up-to-date guide to the language and idiom of contemporary French as it is found in the 'quality' press. It therefore concentrates on specialized fields of vocabularly, notably administrative, economic, commercial, political and journalistic. Short examples are given for each word or phrase with English translations of headwords and unusual idioms. A list of common abbreviations and acronyms is also supplied.
More than a mere word-list but not aiming to be a full-blown dictionary, this vocabulary will be a useful tool and reference manual for both general reader and students who wish to understand and use contemporary French as well as journalists, business people and others who need to use specialized registers of French.
'Ritchie's small paperback will be an asset to students in international business or politics and to readers of French newspapers. In fact, it is recommended for anyone who wants to keep up with contemporary French...The outstanding feature of this carefully selected list of words is the illustration of each by several different examples of usage, clarifying the various contemporary connotations of each word...The typeface is clear and spacing is adequate on each page. For personal use, this up-to-date dictionary is perfect.' (Choice)
'Specialist dictionaries are a godsend to the student who is just beginning to read in a specialist field. This dictionary like many specialist dictionaries will be a boon to students moving from the traditional literary background into new registers so familiar to regular readers of Le Monde etc. It is a gold mine set our very conveniently in paperback format, ensuring portability and accessibility. It covers approximately 3000 headwords, gives examples of usage and English translations with, where necessary, additional explanations. A list of common abbreviations and sigles is also supplied. Painstakingly asembled this little reference book will be an invaluable tool for all who need to have an accurate understanding of more than the popular press. Strongly recommended for the new Sixth Former and well beyond.' (Francophone)