According to Mark Twain “The difference between the right word and almost the right word is the difference between lightning and a lightning bug.”

In this charmingly instructive guide to the more than 2,500 borrowed French words that have become de riguer for Anglophones Yvette Reche not only offers definitions but lexicographical history. It all began when William the Conqueror sailed from Normandy and defeated the English at Hastings in 1066. French immediately become the language of the rich and famous, and to this day one adds panache and savoir-faire by speaking French.

French for Le Snob gives educated English speakers from all walks of life the ammunition they need to use the English language in a learned, colorful, fun, and sophisticated manner in their daily interactions: Chefs, foodies, restaurateurs, oenophiles, architects, graphic and interior designers, antique dealers, writers, actors, musicians, dancers, fine artists, fashion designers and editors, models, English teachers, French teachers . . . . anybody who wants to use le mot juste will find it in French for Le Snob!

At the very least it will improve your chances of solving the daily New York Times crossword puzzle.

FRENCH FOR LE SNOB: ADDING PANACHE TO YOUR EVERYDAY CONVERSATION

Yvette Reche was born and raised in France and began her career teaching elementary school. After moving to Canada, Reche received her postgraduate degree in French/English translation from the University of British Columbia and taught French at the high school and college level for 12 years. She lives in Tempe, Arizona..