familiarise yourself with your dictionary
Dictionaries vary in approach. The best way to learn how to use your particular dictionary effectively is to read its introductory section where youʼll 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. There may also be information on pronunciation of words with similar spellings; this can be helpful if you have only heard a word and youʼre not sure of its spelling. For example, if you hear “not”, it might also be “knot” but the “k” is silent, and this list can help you with suggestions. |
Know how to look up a word
When you come across a word you donʼt recognise or know the meaning of, keep a note of it. When you get around to looking it up, here is the sequence to follow:
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Know how to make the most of your find
Once youʼve located the word, there are several useful elements that you can discover about the word from the dictionary entry. Read the information given about this entry, and depending on your dictionary, you might find many things:
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Think about how the information youʼve found relates to the word as you encountered it
If there are multiple definitions, decide which one matches your source or context for the word and notice how the different definitions are related to one another. In an English dictionary, the most common meaning is usually placed first where there are multiple meanings. Try using your new word in a sentence. If itʼs difficult to spell, write it a few times to help yourself remember it. |
Use your dictionary for other purposes than looking up a word
Many dictionaries come with an array of other useful information. Some of the information that you might find in your dictionary includes:
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Learn how to use an online dictionary
Online dictionaries are easy. Choose a suitable free online dictionary, or a subscription one if your place of work or study subscribes, and simply type in the word youʼre looking for. The search machine will return the word to you and the definition section should contain most of the elements discussed above. Note that free services may not be as comprehensive as a subscription or book dictionary, so keep this in mind when youʼre not sure that youʼve found the right answer.
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Have fun using a dictionary
The last step is the most fun – simply browse a dictionary to enlighten yourself about new words now and then. Just open the dictionary up to any page and scan the page for words that are unfamiliar or seem interesting. Pinpoint them, read the definition and try to add the new word to your thinking or talking during the next few days until it becomes a remembered part of your natural vocabulary.
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