standard reference work
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standard reference work
A foundational, authoritative, and widely recognized book or publication in a particular field. It is considered a reference and is indispensable for anyone learning or working in that area.
Der „Dehio“ ist das Standardwerk für alle Kunsthistoriker, die sich mit deutscher Architektur beschäftigen.
The 'Dehio' is the standard reference work for all art historians who deal with German architecture.
The word is made up of 'Standard' (standard) and 'Werk' (work). So it literally describes a work, such as a book, that sets the standard in a particular field or is considered authoritative.
Dieses Lexikon ist ein Standardwerk für Übersetzer.
This encyclopedia is a standard reference work for translators.
A book is often described as such with the phrase 'gilt als Standardwerk' (is considered a standard reference work). This expression emphasizes its recognized and authoritative role in a field.
Das Kochbuch von Julia Child gilt als Standardwerk der französischen Küche.
Julia Child's cookbook is considered a standard reference work on French cuisine.
The word is almost always used in an academic or professional context. With 'für' (for), the target audience is named; with 'zu' or 'über' (on/about), the topic is named.
Er sucht ein Standardwerk für angehende Architekten.
He is looking for a standard reference work for aspiring architects.
Bible
In a figurative sense, die Bibel can refer to a book regarded as particularly fundamental and indispensable for a subject. Das Standardwerk is the neutral term for an accepted reference work. Use Bibel when you want to emphasize its outstanding importance; otherwise, use Standardwerk.
Dieses Buch ist für angehende Köche ein anerkanntes Standardwerk der französischen Küche.
For aspiring chefs, this book is a recognized standard reference work on French cuisine.
Dieses Buch ist für angehende Köche die Bibel der französischen Küche.
For aspiring chefs, this book is the bible of French cuisine.
