The French Academy's New Dictionary: What's New

The Académie Française, established in 1635, serves as the official authority on the French language, tasked with preserving its purity and guiding its evolution. In November 2024, after nearly nine decades since its previous edition, the Académie unveiled the ninth edition of its dictionary, introducing approximately 21,000 new words to reflect contemporary linguistic and societal shifts.

Notable Additions Reflecting Modern Society

The new edition incorporates terms that mirror recent societal changes and technological advancements. Significant inclusions are:​

• Wokisme: Adapted from the English "woke," this term denotes awareness of social injustices and inequalities.​

• Vegan: Reflecting the rise in plant-based lifestyles, this term pertains to individuals who abstain from animal products.​

• Télétravail: Translating to "telework" or "remote work," this word has gained prominence, especially in light of global shifts towards flexible working arrangements.
  

These additions aim to capture the "social and cultural transformation" of the French language, providing up-to-date terminology for contemporary phenomena.

Embracing Gender Inclusivity

The dictionary also acknowledges the evolving discourse on gender by feminizing titles of professions and roles, a move towards greater inclusivity. Examples include:

• Soigneuse: A female caretaker or nurse.​
• Viticultrice: A female winegrower.​
• Vice-consule: A female vice-consul.​

This shift addresses longstanding debates about gender representation in the French language and aligns with contemporary movements advocating for equality.

Critiques and Omissions

Despite these updates, the dictionary has faced criticism for being outdated upon release. Notably, it excludes widely used terms such as "smartphone," "web," and "coronavirus," leading some linguists to question its relevance in capturing the current linguistic landscape.

The lengthy compilation process, spanning nearly four decades, has been a focal point of critique. Critics argue that the slow pace hinders the dictionary's ability to keep up with the rapidly evolving language, rendering it less practical for contemporary users.

The Role of the Académie in Modern Times

The Académie Française's traditionalist approach underscores a broader debate about language regulation. While some advocate for preserving linguistic purity, others emphasize the necessity of adapting to organic changes driven by everyday usage. This tension reflects differing philosophies on how best to honor the rich heritage of the French language while embracing its natural evolution.

Conclusion

The ninth edition of the Académie Française's dictionary represents a significant effort to document and guide the French language in the modern era. By incorporating new terms and acknowledging societal shifts, it strives to balance tradition with contemporary relevance. However, the critiques highlight the challenges inherent in codifying a living language that continually evolves. As French society progresses, the ongoing dialogue between linguistic authorities and the public will shape the future trajectory of the language.