Q&A for How to Use a Dictionary

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Where can you find detailed instructions or explanations in the dictionary?

Community Answer

A dictionary provides definitions of words, but usually does not give detailed instructions on how objects are used. For that you will need to research a particular topic online or buy books related to that specific subject.

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Question

If I just want to read a dictionary to expand my vocabulary, should I read everything about each word, or just the definition?

Community Answer

I would read everything about the word so that you get a full picture of the word's meaning and usage.

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Question

What are the parts of a dictionary?

Community Answer

Words, definitions (the meaning of a word), the pronunciation of each word using the special spelling and pronunciation key, and examples of how to use the word in a sentence. The dictionary may include synonyms of the word.

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Question

Is there a technique to read properly with a headache?

Community Answer

If possible, don't read with a headache, as it will only make it worse. If you have to read, don't read from a screen, and try large print under bright light, taking lots of breaks.

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Question

Where in a college or unabridged dictionary would I find detailed instructions and explanations of its contents?

Community Answer

The best way to learn how to use your particular dictionary effectively is to read its introductory section, where you'll find out how the entries are arranged. The introductory section of your dictionary will explain important information, such as the abbreviations and pronunciation symbols used throughout the entries.

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How do I determine how many syllables are in a word?

Community Answer

Put your hand under your chin, and count how many times your chin touches your hand. Each touch is a syllable.

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Question

What does "informal" mean in a definition? "Peruse" has two meanings and they are almost opposite!

Donagan

Top Answerer

"Informal" refers to an idiom or other casual usage. "Peruse" has just one meaning: to read (or study) with particular attention.

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Question

Which part shows how to say the word?

Donagan

Top Answerer

See Part 1, Step 4 above.

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Question

Is a dictionary better than thesaurus?

Donagan

Top Answerer

It's better for finding definitions. A thesaurus is better for finding synonyms (and antonyms).

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Question

Doesn't 'growth' primarily refer to living plants and animals, as an economy will just increase and decrease?

Donagan

Top Answerer

You are correct in a traditional sense. In recent years, however, the expression "grow the economy" has become popular in some circles.

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Should I start reading from A to Z in my English dictionary to improve my vocabulary, as I'm curious?

Donagan

Top Answerer

That would certainly help if you have a really good memory. Otherwise, simply reading widely and conversing a lot with native speakers will serve you well.

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How do figure out whether the particular synonym is the proper one?

Donagan

Top Answerer

Verbally insert each synonym into the intended context, and see which synonym sounds best. If that doesn't work, you'll have to ask the opinion of someone whose language instincts you trust.

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Question

Does it take a long time to find a word in a dictionary?

Alando Turner

Community Answer

No, it shouldn't take you as much time. Since the dictionary is in alphabetical order, it should take you about 3 minutes to find a word.

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Question

What is a dictionary?

Community Answer

It's a collection of word definitions, pronunciations and derivations.

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