When To Use A Dictionary

Whenever you are learning a new language or want to improve your english skill, dictionary is an essential tool. But if you think that you should break out your dictionary every time you encounter a new word, then you are utterly wrong. If you did this, then you would spend your entire day with a dictionary in hand, looking up words. You would stop enjoying reading the actual literature and get frustrated with your language-learning efforts easily. Therefore it is essential that you know and realise when you actually need to use a dictionary and when you can figure out the meaning of the word without the help of a dictionary. We have compiled a list of advices that you can use to guide you while using a dictionary. These tips will help you become a more efficient and effective language learner.

●     So, you are reading a book and suddenly, you encounter a new word. Before you start looking up the word, finish reading the sentence or better yet, finish reading the entire paragraph. Most of the times you would we able to guess the meaning of the word. This method is better than reaching for a dictionary first because you learn the meaning through the usage of the word. If you still feel that you don’t completely understand the word, then bookmark where you were reading in the book and go look up the word. The idea is that you don’t take too long looking for the meaning of the word while you ignore the actual reading. Doing so would take the fun out of reading. If you can, use a bilingual dictionary in your own language to understand the word faster.

●     The above rule also applies when you hear a new word in a conversation. So when you hear your speak a new word or write on the board, wait and finish listening to the conversation. The teacher might explain the word or give example on how the word is used. If you pick up the dictionary as soon as you hear the new word, then you will miss out on what the teacher is saying and it will become difficult to follow what the teacher is saying in class. Just note down the new word. After class, first ask the teacher or a fellow student. This way you’ll able to understand the meaning of the word in the context it was taught in class. You’ll not only learn the meaning of the word but also how it can be used.

●     And finally if you think the word is very important and you don’t really understand the teacher’s or fellow student’s explanation, then you can look it up in a dictionary or an electronic dictionary. Keep a running list of such words and go over them often. Try to use them in everyday conversation. Then you’ll be able to get a hang of the word and be able to use it successfully.

How often do you use a dictionary? Have you ever used an electronic dictionary bookmark? Leave us a comment.