Re: Chambers 21st Century Dictionary on CD-ROM

On Tue, 02 Dec 2003 22:50:23 +0800, Yap Yok Foo <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> 
wrote:
> So far, I am very clear about the Chambers Dictionary being different
> from the Chambers 21th Century Dictionary; the latter, an abridged
> version.
>
> Years ago (early 70's), when I first started on cryptic crosswords, I
> was advised to buy the Chambers 20th Century Dictionary, which I duly
> did. Was there then a Chambers Dictionary?

Not that I am aware of, though they have always had a range of 
dictionaries.

> My well-thumbed Chambers 20th Century is still in decent condition but
> due to technological advances, I prefer the CD-ROM version. Now which
> should I buy? The 21st Century version now available at less than £10
> or should I wait for the Chambers Dictionary (still not available in
> CD form)

If you want the dictionary to assist with the more difficult UK cryptics 
then get The Chambers Dictionary. Either wait for the CD-ROM version or 
get the paper version. The 21st C Dictionary would be okay for standard 
cryptics but not for Azed, Mephisto or the Listener.

> Someone here mentioned that due to some naming or renaming,
> confusion has crept in. I think I am a victim of this confusion.
> Someone knowledgeable, please enlighten me

For most of the last century Chambers published the 20th Century 
Dictionary as its most comprehensive dictionary. In 1988 with the 21st 
century looming they decided to rename it to the Chambers English 
Dictionary, this was further renamed to the Chambers Dictionary (as it is 
now.) They also decided to bring out a dictionary containing less obscure 
words and less Scots words. They called this the Chambers 21st Century 
Dictionary. I think this was a mistake but they are now stuck with it for 
the time being.


Colin
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