Larousse French-Chinese Bilingual Dictionary

Author: Xue Jiancheng, et al. (Compilers)
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2001-08-01
Features: After more than four years of effort, the "Larousse French-Chinese Explanatory Dictionary" has finally been presented to readers. The original French version of the dictionary is "Dictionnaire de la langue fran?aise" published by Larousse in 1995. It is a medium-sized dictionary with 38,000 entries, including 50,000 synonyms and 20,000 phrases. In the "Introduction to the Dictionary" section of the original French version, the characteristics of the dictionary are introduced in detail. We believe there are a few more distinctive features:
1. The etymology of almost all entries is indicated, and the level of detail is rare among similar dictionaries. This is very helpful for readers to understand the evolution of the French language and word formation.
2. Many encyclopedic notes are inserted into the definitions. Whether it involves zoology, botany, or specialized vocabulary in fields such as mathematics and physics, concise and precise annotations are often appended. While readers learn the meanings of words, they can also enrich their related knowledge.
3. The dictionary pays attention to reflecting the times and in terms of word selection, definitions, and examples. For example:
- bogue, bug (m.) [c.] (error, fault in programming) [e.g., "millennium bug"];
- transgenique (adj.) genetically modified;
- mecanique (f.) wrist, method, means;
- four à micro-ondes, un micro-ondes microwave oven;
- mere porteuse (surrogate mother);
- trou d'ozone ozone hole;
- ordinateur domestique, individuel ou personnel home computer; personal computer.
Currently, in French-Chinese bilingual dictionaries, the definitions are replaced with corresponding Chinese words, which makes it impossible to reflect subtle characteristics of word meanings. This can lead to difficulties in accurately grasping and using the meanings. With the French-Chinese Explanatory Dictionary, readers can not only understand precise definitions in French but also obtain corresponding Chinese words. Furthermore, they can even refer to the Chinese corresponding words when translating and select a more appropriate Chinese word that is not provided in the dictionary. The "Larousse French-Chinese Explanatory Dictionary" is a reference tool compiled for this purpose.
Due to the wide range of content in this dictionary, our knowledge in science and culture as well as language proficiency may be insufficient. It is inevitable to have shortcomings and errors, and we welcome comments and corrections from readers and experts.