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Princeton University Library Catalog
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The word detective : a life in words : from serendipity to selfie / John Simpson.
Author
Simpson, J. A., 1953-
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Format
Book
Language
English
Published/Created
London : Little, Brown, 2016.
©2016
Description
xvi, 366 pages ; 24 cm
Availability
Copies in the Library
Location
Call Number
Status
Location Service
Notes
Firestone Library - Stacks
PE64.S46 A3 2016b
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Details
Subject(s)
Lexicographers
—
Great Britain
—
Biography
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English language
—
Lexicography
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Oxford English dictionary
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Simpson, J. A. 1953-
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Summary note
Language is always changing. No one knows where it is going but the best way to future-cast is to look at the past. John Simpson animates for us a tradition of researching and editing, showing us both the technical lexicography needed to understand a word, and the careful poetry needed to construct its definition. He challenges both the idea that dictionaries are definitive, and the notion that language is falling apart. With a sense of humour, an ability to laugh at bureaucracy and an inclination to question the status quo, John Simpson gives life to the colourful characters at the OED and to the English language itself. He splices his stories with entertaining and erudite diversions into the history and origin of words such as 'kangaroo', 'hot-dog' , 'pommie', 'bicycle' , not ignoring those swearwords often classed as 'Anglo-Saxon' ! The book will speak to anyone who uses a dictionary, 'word people' , history lovers, students and parents.
Notes
Includes index.
ISBN
9781408706602 ((hardback))
1408706601 ((hardback))
9781408706732 (paperback)
1408706733 (paperback)
OCLC
928778396
Statement on language in description
Princeton University Library aims to describe library materials in a manner that is respectful to the individuals and communities who create, use, and are represented in the collections we manage.
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