Les dictionnaires d’orthographe : analyses et propositions

This article, which is based on the analysis of twelve spelling dictionaries, aims at defining the finalities of this lexicographical genre. A distinction can be made between three types : 1) elementary dictionaries (word lists with brief indications) ; 2) supplementary dictionaries (brought out with other language guides) ; 3) annotated dictionaries (containing far more information than the first two types). This analysis shows that some aspects are not covered and this could be rectified with a new type of dictionary, which would bring words out of their isolation by putting in many more cross-references, and thereby affording a more global and thus intelligible perspective on the way they are spelt. This sort of dictionary would greatly help users to understand and to master spelling.