📖 Overview
Le Petit Robert is a comprehensive French language dictionary first published in 1967 by lexicographer Paul Robert and linguist Josette Rey-Debove. The single-volume work contains over 60,000 words and 300,000 meanings, along with etymology, pronunciation guides, and usage examples.
The dictionary follows strict methodological principles in organizing entries, with words arranged alphabetically and meanings presented in historical chronological order. Contemporary usage, regional variations, and specialized terminology receive coverage through regular updates and new editions.
This reference work has become a standard resource for French language learners, writers, and scholars seeking authoritative information about word meanings and usage. The clear layout and systematic approach make complex linguistic information accessible while maintaining scholarly rigor.
Beyond its practical function, Le Petit Robert represents a significant contribution to French lexicography and the preservation of language evolution through documentation of changing meanings and expressions over time. The work captures both the precision and flexibility of French as a living language.
👀 Reviews
Le Petit Robert is a French dictionary that readers consistently rate 4.5-5 stars across platforms.
Readers appreciate:
- Clear etymology of words with dated examples
- Links between related words and synonyms
- Recent additions of modern terms and usage
- High quality binding that withstands daily use
Common critiques:
- Small print size strains eyes
- Weight and bulk make it less portable
- High price point
- Some complain newer editions remove useful older words
"The cross-references and word families make it superior to other French dictionaries" - Amazon.fr reviewer
"Perfect for French learners at B2 level and above" - Goodreads user
Available ratings:
Amazon.fr: 4.7/5 (312 reviews)
Goodreads: 4.6/5 (89 reviews)
fnac.com: 4.8/5 (156 reviews)
Note: Most online reviews are in French, as this dictionary primarily serves French-speaking users and advanced French language learners.
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🤔 Interesting facts
🔍 Le Petit Robert was first published in 1967 and became one of France's most respected and widely-used dictionaries, competing directly with the Larousse dictionary
📚 The dictionary contains detailed etymological information for each word, tracing their origins and evolution through history, making it particularly valuable for linguistic research
🎯 Unlike many other dictionaries, Le Petit Robert includes contemporary usage examples from modern literature and media, keeping it current and relevant for modern French speakers
👥 The dictionary was created as a more concise version of the larger "Le Grand Robert" (also by Paul Robert), but still contains approximately 60,000 words and 300,000 definitions
🌍 The name "Robert" has become so synonymous with French dictionaries that in France, people often say "check the Robert" ("regarder dans le Robert") rather than "check the dictionary"