The circumflex accent: A legacy of history, a subject of debate
Date
2025
Authors
Labelle, Claudine
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Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University Of Victoria
Abstract
Writing evolves to reflect spoken language. In 1990, the Académie française proposed a minor spelling reform to address inconsistencies, sparking a debate that persists today. Contrary to popular belief, these changes were not imposed but stemmed from public concerns. This presentation examines the history and functions of the circumflex accent, the impact of the reform, the arguments against it and the counterarguments.
Description
Keywords
orthographic reform, rectification orthographique, circumflex accent, French linguistic, académie française, French orthography