Bescherelle – Vocabulary for Everyone (New Edition) is a reference and practical guide to understand how French vocabulary works—and to expand it with confidence. Aimed at learners, teachers, and word lovers, this updated edition combines history, linguistics, and hands‑on strategies to build a richer lexicon.

Inside, six clear sections guide you step by step:

– Describe and classify words: core linguistic notions made accessible.
– Trace the history of the French lexicon: origins, borrowings from ancient and foreign languages, etymology, and French as spoken outside France.
– Form words: families of words, the role of prefixes and suffixes, compounds and clippings—including recent forms.
– Understand meanings: semantic variety and how word senses change over time.
– Use the right word and grow your vocabulary: choose precise terms, master nuance, and fit words to context.
– Avoid traps: targeted answers on spelling and correct usage, tackling look‑alikes and common confusions.
Whether you’re learning French or teaching it, this Bescherelle offers precise, complete, and practical guidance to develop a nuanced, contemporary French vocabulary.