top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Dictionaries find the mot juste to add to language

Online search engines are being used more often, but France’s leading dictionaries still give a snapshot of the current state of the language.

Both Le Petit Larousse (€29.90) and Le Petit Robert Illustré (€32.90) have lists of new words.

The VW scandal has inspired dédiésélisation for the switch from polluting fuels, the aftermath of the Syrian war and rising internet attacks bring fears of cyberdjihadisme, while new business methods have given ubériser and coworking.

As in coworking, English words may be used as they are more concise than French, but “spoiler” has now become the unwieldy divulgâcher (from divulge and gâcher to spoil).

New lifestyles give new words, with Ramen noodles, boboïser to gentrify an area, locavorisme for eating local food, and mono­roue for one-wheeled scooters.

And, as 60 is the new 40, adulescence is for those séniors who behave like adolescents.

Although sales are slowing, dictionaries still sell hundreds of thousands of copies a year, with Petit Larousse number one.

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France