HOW TO CHOOSE THE GOOD

DICTIONARY

By : Nuralita Jihad P/ P23131015042

because many types of current
dictionary. Then we must be
smart to choose the dictionary
to suit our needs.
 Step 1
Know what general sort of dictionary you need. Here are the
basics you should decide before you begin looking.
• Are you looking for a dictionary in English, with
definitions in English? Are you looking for a
Languages translating dictionary, a book that will allow you to
look up words in your language and find words in
another language?

• For print dictionaries, will you be carrying this

Size dictionary with you in a pocket, purse, or briefcase
or will it remain on a desk or bookshelf somewhere?

• Do you want a general dictionary? Do you want a

dictionary that includes technical terms or terms
Scope. relating to a particular field or specialty? Some
dictionaries specialize in words pertaining to certain
subjects, such as music or law.
 • Do you care if your dictionary is hardcover
or paperback? Do you prefer a book that
Binding will stay open by itself, or do you mind
holding the pages open while you use it?

Print or • Printed dictionaries require no electricity

digital to operate. On the other hand, they are
updated only by purchasing a new one.
format
 Step 2

Look for newer words. New words enter the

language all the time. Ask yourself, does the
dictionary include current technology and
computer terms?
 Step 3
• Look for proper nouns. Does the dictionary
mention Arizona? Does it mention important
people?
 Step 4
• Look for slang and vulgar words. Even if you
think you already know these words in your
own language or you don't wish to use them,
you may not want to neglect them in another
language, simply to understand what others
are saying.
 Step 5
• Check for regional words, if you know them in
the language(s) your dictionary treats. For
example, the words biscuit, cookie, chips, and
crisps mean slightly different things depending
on where in the English-speaking world you
hear them. If your dictionary is written for a
certain region, be sure you know which region
it is before you buy it.
 Step 6
• Examine the reference matter at the front and
back. Does it have a pronunciation key? Do
you understand it and know how to use it? Did
you have to read the pronunciation key, or
could you make a pretty good guess? If it is a
translating dictionary, does it include a usage
section or a phrasebook section? Are these
features that you will use when using this
dictionary?
 Step 7
• Find out how the dictionary handles terms
with multiple meanings. This is particularly
important in a translating dictionary. In English
word "board" can mean a piece of wood, and
it can mean a committee. In most other
languages, you will need a bit of guidance to
choose the correct translation according to
your meaning.
 Step 8
• Notice whether the dictionary includes
phrases and idioms and see how it handles
them. Again, these can vary between regions,
so be sure to note if regional differences are
mentioned.
 Step 9
• Read a few sample definitions. Try to choose
both familiar and unfamiliar entries. Are they
clear? Do you understand them? In an English
dictionary, are etymologies listed and are they
clear? Does the dictionary give examples of
the word in use? Are they citations from
published works? Does the dictionary include
synonyms or other information about the
word?