A dictionary is a book in which words and phrases of a particular language are listed alphabetically, along with their meanings or their translations into another language. Dictionaries are an essential lifeline for learning any language. We are sure that most of you must have been in a situation where you wanted to say something but couldn't find the right word.
Most avid readers cannot do without a dictionary. Every time a new word is encountered, the guest's first reaction is to look it up. It helps them to understand the text clearly and also to expand their own vocabulary.
No one can deny the importance of a good vocabulary. You can often meet people who search their brains for the right word, but never find it. The reason is limited knowledge of the language. Whether you want to impress an interviewer or your boss at work, you will need to master the English language. That is why dictionaries become an indispensable part of your life. And not just any dictionary, you need to choose the right one that suits your needs and goals. Only then can you make the best use of your resources and skills.
Dictionaries improve certain important aspects of your overall language: grammar, pronunciation, vocabulary. Moreover, you don't just get a mechanical definition of words; they are supplemented with lots of examples and a proper etymological section. This way you can learn about the origin of the word, its development and the context in which it can be used. You will also get synonyms and antonyms for each word. Some of the dictionaries even include modern slang and idioms, so you'll always be up-to-date.
Since the internet and bookstores are full of a variety of dictionaries, there are a few things you need to do before you buy. It may seem tedious and unnecessary, but it is important. First, try to take a closer look at the properties of the dictionary according to your convenience. Also, do a good research on its pros and cons before buying.
There are tons of free resources online, along with videos, audio, and fun games to expand your vocabulary. Audio Pronunciation helps you work on your speaking skills. Some online dictionaries even have a translation feature, so you can look up a word in your native language. For example, if you are interested in knowing the meaning of a word in Hindi, you can simply type in an English word and translate it with just one click! Learning vocabulary has never been easier thanks to the internet.
Some good online dictionaries we recommend are: Cambridge Online Dictionary, Collins Dictionary, Macmillan Online Dictionary, Wiktionary, Google dictionary, Urban Dictionary, Oxford Dictionary. They are a good solution for quick orientation while reading. However, it is important to note that they have their own limitations. So don't blindly trust them.
Finally, if you want to do things in a more traditional way, you can get a printed version of the dictionary from a bookstore.
In the end, it's just a matter of preference. So choose what you like if it helps you learn better.
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