'Pocket Oxford Hachette French Dictionary' 

Book Review

The Pocket Oxford Hachette French Dictionary includes more than ninety-thousand word and phrase entries for contemporary French and English. An easy-read format makes its extensive content accessible and user-friendly. Grammar and template supplements are included and make for a helpful and interesting addition to the book.  

Though described as a 'pocket' dictionary, Oxford Hachette French would be better suited to a desk drawer or suitcase. It isn't unwieldy, but it is sizeable, representing the significant number of entries inside. Ideal for beginner to intermediate-level French students, the dictionary includes a rich and varied selection of contemporary vocabulary.

Format has been given some thought and is a focus point for this title. The page layout is clean and open. The keywords on the top of each page are in a good size font, so readily legible. Clarifying notes appear throughout a number of the pages. I found it easy to scan for words alphabetically. The entries were well presented and informative. 

A supplementary middle section lists a selection of vocabulary unique to French culture, such as ARTE (a cultural programme channel) and matignon (the French Prime Minister's official residence). This would prove very useful to the French student, and is often missing from other language reference books. A grammar section at the back of the dictionary summarizes common verb endings, pronouns, adjective position etc. 

The Pocket Oxford Hachette French Dictionary would be a very useful addition to any French learner's collection. Very readable and I liked the extra supplements a lot.