Having a good English dictionary is important if you want to learn the language well. In fact, it is probably the most valuable tool you have while taking your ESL classes. As well as a definition, a good dictionary will also show you how to pronounce the word and give examples of ways that the word is commonly used. Unfortunately there are quite a number of dictionaries on the market. So how do you choose a good dictionary? Here are some pointers to consider.
Make certain the dictionary offers some examples sentences so you can see different ways that the word is used. This will not only help you to better understand the meaning of the word, but will provide valuable grammar information as well. Most will identify the word as a noun, verb, adjective etc.
A good dictionary will provide more than one definition for a word whenever it has different meanings. This is a common occurrence in the English language, and knowing the right definition of a word is necessary to learn the language properly.
While not essential, a few little extras that may be included are always helpful. Look for a dictionary that also provides synonyms for words, phonetic pronunciations and even photos. Any items that make learning English more fun will help to keep you motivated.
Try to find a dictionary that is comfortable to use. Find one in a size that can be carried with you but still has print that is easy to read. If you prefer to have both a pocket and a desk dictionary, you should buy the same one for both to avoid confusion.
The last item to consider is price. Dictionaries come in a very wide price range so you will have to look for one that best fits your budget. A good dictionary is something that you will use in your studies for a very long time so it is really an important investment.
While online dictionaries can be a useful tool as well, and can provide a quick definition for most words, they are generally not as complete as a book edition. Software dictionaries that you download to your computer are usually better, but it can still take longer to look up a word in the database than it would to look the word up manually. Learning English can be frustrating enough without the added frustrations of a slow dictionary!
One last pointer: you should stick to English only dictionaries. Your teachers in your ESL classes probably don’t speak your native language in class, and they surely don’t translate words. So why should you get a bilingual dictionary? It certainly helps you understand new vocabulary, but it won t really improve your English. So, get out there and get yourself a good one! But don’t leave it on a shelf to gather dust. Put it to good use!
If you liked this article, tell all your friends about it. They’ll thank you for it. If you have a blog or website, you can link to it or even post it to your own site (don’t forget to mention www.englishlci.com as the original source).
Author Resource:
Susan Thomason has written numerous articles for LCI English Center, an ESL school in Denver, Colorado. LCI offers the best English training through experienced teachers and high quality programs. Check out more ESL articles at http://www.englishlci.com/blog
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