Use dictionary definitions
Key Notes:
| Why Use a Dictionary? |
A dictionary isn’t just a book of words; it’s a powerful tool for understanding language. It helps you:
- Find the meaning of unfamiliar words.
- Clarify nuances between similar words.
- Improve your vocabulary and writing skills.
- Confirm spelling and pronunciation.
| Understanding Dictionary Entries |
Let’s break down a typical dictionary entry. Here’s a simplified example for the word “elated”:
elated \i-ˈlā-təd\ adj. very happy; jubilant.
| Word: elated Pronunciation: \i-ˈlā-təd\ Part of Speech: adj. | Pronunciation: This tells you how to say the word. Dictionaries use phonetic symbols. Look for the pronunciation key in your dictionary’s front pages. Part of Speech: Indicates the grammatical function of the word (e.g., adjective, noun, verb, adverb). |
- Definition: very happy; jubilant. This is the word’s meaning. Some words have multiple definitions, numbered or lettered. Choose the definition that fits the context of your sentence.
Dictionaries often provide synonyms (words with similar meanings, like jubilant) to further clarify the meaning.
| Example with Multiple Definitions |
Consider the word “run”:
run \ˈrən\ verb
- to move at a speed faster than a walk
- to compete in a race
- to operate or manage
- to flow
… (and many more!)
If you see the sentence, “She runs a successful business,” definition #3 (to operate or manage) is the correct meaning, not definition #1.
| Tips for Using Dictionary Definitions Effectively |
- Read all the definitions: Don’t just stop at the first one. Consider them all before choosing the best fit.
- Pay attention to parts of speech: Using the wrong part of speech can change the meaning of your sentence. For example, if the word is a verb, make sure to conjugate it correctly to fit the tense.
- Consider the context: The surrounding words and sentences provide clues to the word’s meaning.
- Use guide words: Guide words appear at the top of each dictionary page. They indicate the first and last word on that page, helping you quickly locate your word.
- Look up unfamiliar words within the definition: Sometimes, a definition contains words you don’t know. Look those up too!
- Practice regularly: The more you use a dictionary, the better you’ll become at understanding definitions.
| Beyond the Definition: Additional Information |
Many dictionaries also include:
- Etymology: The origin and history of the word.
- Usage notes: Information about how the word is typically used, including common idioms or phrases.
- Illustrations: Helpful pictures or diagrams, especially for technical terms.
- Synonyms and Antonyms: Lists of words with similar and opposite meanings.
| Next Steps |
- Choose a paragraph from any book you’re currently reading.
- Identify 2-3 words you don’t fully understand.
- Look up those words in a dictionary.
- Write down the definition that best fits the context of the paragraph.
- Rewrite the paragraph, replacing the original words with their definitions to see if the meaning remains the same.
This exercise will help you practice using dictionary definitions effectively.