O To Scz, But Don’t Reno Or Park (Press, 2 October 1982)

On 2 October 1982, Oxford University Press released Volume 111 of "A Supplement to the Oxford English Dictionary," edited by R. W. Burchfield. This edition continues the comprehensive update of the historic dictionary, which documents the evolution of English usage. A review by A. N. Wilson in “The Spectator” highlighted contributions from New Zealand, emphasising the country's cultural and intellectual influence. Wilson praised New Zealand, mentioning its pleasant climate, notable authors like Dan Davin and Katherine Mansfield, and the significant support provided by New Zealand during international conflicts. The review acknowledges Dr Robert Burchfield as a leading lexicographer and highlights his extensive work over the last 25 years to refine the dictionary. The dictionary serves as a historical record of the English language, detailing words and their usages without imposing correctness, unlike French language academies. It illustrates how words evolve and reflects diverse meanings through usage. Among the historical details shared, Wilson recounts that the original dictionary segments from letters O and P were completed by Sir James Murray in 1909, with subsequent work by Sir William Craigie and Henry Bradley on letters Q and R, and S, respectively. Since then, the English vocabulary has grown, with an estimated addition of 450 words annually, many derived from foreign languages and reflecting cultural shifts. Dr Burchfield's method embraces inclusivity in language, leading to some controversies, such as including derogatory terms like "to jew," and anticipating similar reactions with upcoming words starting with W. He believes in documenting all forms of language to mirror actual usage, even if they are offensive or considered slang. The review also comments on the divergence between American English and British English, predicting that they may develop into distinctly different languages. It notes that any British speaker visiting New York would struggle to understand much of the local vernacular. Wilson critiques the dictionary's omissions while acknowledging its vast coverage, mentioning expressions from popular culture and modern slang that have not yet made the dictionary. He reflects on the representative nature of entries, which often include quotes from literature and newspapers, enhancing its role not just as a reference work but also as an anthology that captures the essence of the language. Contributors to this dictionary, such as Marghanita Laski, who has contributed over 30,000 quotations, and others acknowledged in the preface, have played a crucial role in enriching the dictionary. Wilson concludes with recognition for their invaluable contributions to this expansive and intricate resource, which serves the English-speaking world.

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