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Alain Rey

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description Alain Rey Overview

Alain Rey was a French linguist and lexicographer closely associated with the Le Robert family of dictionaries. He joined the dictionary project led by Paul Robert and became a central editor and historical authority behind works including Le Petit Robert and the larger Dictionnaire alphabétique et analogique de la langue française. He was also known for explaining word origins and changes in French usage to general audiences through radio, essays, and reference works.

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What is Alain Rey famous for?

Alain Rey was a prominent French linguist and lexicographer who served as the chief editor for the famous 'Dictionnaire Le Robert.' He was the primary historical and etymological mind behind the dictionary starting in 1967. His work deeply influenced how the French language is understood and cataloged.

What is the 'Dictionnaire Le Robert'?

The 'Dictionnaire Le Robert' is one of the most comprehensive and authoritative dictionaries of the French language, first published in 1967. Alain Rey played a massive role in its linguistic accuracy and the inclusion of detailed word histories. It is considered the primary competitor to the Larousse dictionary.

Did Alain Rey appear on French television?

Yes, Rey was a well-known public intellectual in France who frequently appeared on television and radio to discuss the evolution of language. He was particularly beloved for his segments on the France Inter radio network. He regularly weighed in on debates about slang, anglicisms, and modern linguistic shifts.

When did Alain Rey start working on the Le Robert dictionary?

Rey was enlisted by publisher Paul Robert in the early 1950s to help compile and edit the massive dictionary project. The first major, multi-volume edition was finally published in 1967. Rey continued to oversee the dictionary's updates and expansions until his death.

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