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Robert Burchfield

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description Robert Burchfield Overview

Robert William Burchfield (1923–2004) was a prominent lexicographer and scholar born in New Zealand who spent most of his career in England. He is best known for serving as the editor of the four-volume Supplement to the Oxford English Dictionary, a monumental task undertaken between 1957 and 1986. Under his editorial direction, the dictionary significantly expanded its coverage of global English dialects, incorporating colloquialisms, scientific terms, and regional vocabulary that had previously been excluded.

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What is Robert Burchfield's most important contribution to lexicography?

Burchfield is best known as the editor of the four-volume Supplement to the Oxford English Dictionary, published between 1972 and 1986. This monumental work updated the OED with new vocabulary, revised entries, and significantly expanded coverage of world Englishes beyond British English.

Where was Robert Burchfield from?

Burchfield was born in Wanganui, New Zealand, in 1923, and completed his undergraduate studies at Victoria University of Wellington. He came to England on a Rhodes Scholarship to Magdalen College, Oxford, where he spent the rest of his career.

Did Robert Burchfield revise Fowler's Modern English Usage?

Yes, Burchfield revised H.W. Fowler's classic 'A Dictionary of Modern English Usage,' publishing 'The New Fowler's Modern English Usage' in 1996. His revision was notable for incorporating a more descriptive and internationally-minded approach to English usage than Fowler's original 1926 edition.

How long did Burchfield's work on the OED Supplement take?

Burchfield was appointed editor of the Supplement to the OED in 1957 and worked on the project for nearly three decades, with the four volumes published between 1972 and 1986. His Supplement was later integrated into the second edition of the complete OED published in 1989.

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