Description
If you’re serious about understanding the Canton dialect, this facsimile reprint of the classic “Tonic Dictionary” is an indispensable reference. Originally compiled to bridge English speakers with Cantonese pronunciation and meaning, this dictionary remains a scholarly resource for linguists, heritage language learners, and anyone researching historical Chinese dialects. The tonic (tonal) system is expertly laid out, making it invaluable for understanding how tone shapes meaning in this vibrant southern Chinese language. Whether you’re a student of sinology, Cantonese heritage language learner, or academic researcher, this book offers authentic, detailed entries that few modern dictionaries provide. A rare find for serious learners.
- ISBN-10: 9368964750
- ISBN-13: 978-9368964759
- Publisher: Facsimile Publisher
- Publication date: 1 January 2018
- Language: English
- Dimensions: 24 x 18 x 7 cm
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this dictionary suitable for beginners learning Cantonese?
This is a classic reference dictionary best suited for intermediate to advanced learners and scholars. Its tonic (tonal) system and detailed linguistic annotations require some prior knowledge of phonetics. Beginners may find modern beginner-friendly Cantonese dictionaries more accessible, though this resource is invaluable for serious study.
What does ‘tonic’ mean in this dictionary’s context?
In linguistic terminology, ‘tonic’ refers to tone in the Canton (Cantonese) dialect. Cantonese is a tonal language where tone changes alter word meaning. This dictionary systematically catalogs words by their tones, helping readers understand how pronunciation and tone interact in Cantonese.
Can I use this as a modern translation dictionary?
While this dictionary provides English-Cantonese entries, it’s primarily a reference work for linguistic study rather than a quick translation tool. For modern conversations or casual translation, you may want a contemporary phrasebook alongside this scholarly resource.
Why is this a facsimile edition?
A facsimile edition is a photographic reprint of the original classic text. This preserves the historical authenticity and scholarly value of the original dictionary while making it available in print. Facsimile editions are preferred by researchers who want to study the work exactly as originally published.
Who is this book best for?
This dictionary is ideal for sinologists, academic linguists, heritage Cantonese speakers, advanced language learners, researchers studying Chinese dialects, and library collections focused on linguistics and Asian languages. It’s a scholarly reference rather than a casual learning tool.
