Word by Word: Summary Review
This is a summary review of Word by Word containing key details about Word by Word.
What is Word by Word About?
“Word by Word: The Secret Life of Dictionaries” is a book by lexicographer Kory Stamper that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the world of dictionaries and the people who create them.
Word by Word brings to life the hallowed halls (and highly idiosyncratic cubicles) of Merriam-Webster, a startlingly rich world inhabited by quirky and erudite individuals who quietly shape the way we communicate. Certain to be a delight for all lovers of words, the author’s debut will make you laugh as much as it makes you appreciate the wonderful complexities and eccentricities of the English language.
Summary Points & Takeaways from Word by Word
Some key summary points and takeaways from the book include:
* The dictionary-making process is much more complicated than many people realize. It involves a team of researchers, editors, and lexicographers who work together to gather information, write definitions, and review entries.
* The English language is constantly evolving, and dictionaries must reflect these changes in order to remain relevant and accurate.
* There is often a debate among lexicographers about what should and should not be included in a dictionary, and how words should be defined. This is due to the subjectivity of language and the different perspectives and biases that people bring to the table.
* The dictionary-making process is influenced by various factors, including cultural and political trends, linguistic studies, and public opinion.
* Dictionaries can have a significant impact on the way people understand and use language. For example, a dictionary definition can influence how a word is perceived and used, or even change its meaning over time.
* Overall, “Word by Word” provides a fascinating look at the creation of dictionaries and the role they play in shaping our understanding of language and the world around us.
Who is the author of Word by Word?
Kory Stamper is a lexicographer and former associate editor for the Merriam-Webster family of dictionaries. She is the author of Word by Word: The Secret Life of Dictionaries.
Book details
- Print length: 296 pages
- Genre: Nonfiction, Language, Books about Books
What do critics say?
Here’s what one of the prominent reviewers had to say about the book: “An unlikely page-turner. . . . Stamper displays a contagious enthusiasm for words and a considerable talent for putting them together.” — The New Yorker
* The editor of this summary review made every effort to maintain information accuracy, including any published quotes, chapters, or takeaways. If you’re interested in enhancing your personal growth, I suggest checking out my list of favorite self-development books. These books have been instrumental in my own personal development and I’m confident they can help you too.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an impact-driven creator at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 life goals around the globe. Tal's journey and recent book, The Art of Fully Living, inspired him to found Elevate Society.
