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How To Use An Online Dictionary Dictionaries are awash with words.
Online resources - such as the excellent Merriam-Webster
- use a variety of functions to help give the user accurate and useful results.
In this article, we will discuss these functions, providing tips and ideas for
getting the most from online dictionary usage.
When Unsure Of Exact Spelling Of Word(s)
If you are searching for a particular word, but are unsure of the exact
spelling, online dictionaries allow you to type in the letters you do know, with
the '?' symbol inserted in spaces where you are unsure which letter to type. For
example, if you are unsure of the spelling for education, you could type educa???n
If You Want To Look For Related Words/Terms
You can use online dictionaries to search for related words or terms. For
example, if you wanted to look at a compilation of words that start book,
type book* and you will be returned results such as bookworm and bookmobile.
You can use the asterisk before the word as well to return related words that
end in 'book': workbook for example.
Searching For Multiple Word Phrases
Online dictionaries allow users to search for multiple word phrases such as cockles
of the heart and daylight saving time. Type words using a '+' symbol
to indicate that you are searching for a combination of the words: American+sign+language.
What Font Should I Use?
Online dictionaries will have their own preset fonts, and it doesn't matter
whether you type in capitals or not: tuiTION is the same as tuition.
Read Notes Provided, Including Pronunciation Guide(s)
Some dictionaries will have their own pronunciation guides, so read any user
information they provide with their search facility. Many online dictionaries
also provide etymology and usage notes. These are very useful, so read the notes
provided carefully.
An excellent site to practise online searching is the Encyclopedia
Britannica website.
http://www.optimnem.co.uk
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