Description

Book Synopsis

Alex Horne loves words. He loves them so much, in fact, that he's decided to invent his own ... and get them into the dictionary. But, as Alex discovers, gaining entry into the official lexicon takes more than just a gentle word in the ear of the editor. Evidence is required - Alex needs proof that his words are being spoken by more people than just him and his mum. He needs what the dictionary authorities call a 'corpus' of examples, hard data showing that his new words are in widespread and long-term usage. So a corpus he resolves to create, no matter what obstacles he might meet on the way. This is the epic and ridiculous story of one man's struggle to break into the dictionary.
From covert word-dropping on Countdown to wilfully misinforming schoolchildren, Alex tries it all in his quest for dictionary-based immortality. Does he succeed? Are you already using one of Alex's words without realising it? You won't regret spending your hard-earned honk on this hugely entertaining book.



Trade Review
A safe place to invest your comedy honk * Review for 'Wordwatching' Edinburgh show, Time Out *

Wordwatching: Breaking into the Dictionary: It's

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Order before 4pm tomorrow for delivery by Tue 16 Dec 2025.

A Paperback / softback by Alex Horne

15 in stock


    View other formats and editions of Wordwatching: Breaking into the Dictionary: It's by Alex Horne

    Publisher: Ebury Publishing
    Publication Date: 14/01/2010
    ISBN13: 9781905264612, 978-1905264612
    ISBN10: 1905264615

    Description

    Book Synopsis

    Alex Horne loves words. He loves them so much, in fact, that he's decided to invent his own ... and get them into the dictionary. But, as Alex discovers, gaining entry into the official lexicon takes more than just a gentle word in the ear of the editor. Evidence is required - Alex needs proof that his words are being spoken by more people than just him and his mum. He needs what the dictionary authorities call a 'corpus' of examples, hard data showing that his new words are in widespread and long-term usage. So a corpus he resolves to create, no matter what obstacles he might meet on the way. This is the epic and ridiculous story of one man's struggle to break into the dictionary.
    From covert word-dropping on Countdown to wilfully misinforming schoolchildren, Alex tries it all in his quest for dictionary-based immortality. Does he succeed? Are you already using one of Alex's words without realising it? You won't regret spending your hard-earned honk on this hugely entertaining book.



    Trade Review
    A safe place to invest your comedy honk * Review for 'Wordwatching' Edinburgh show, Time Out *

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