Choosing A Dictionary for Language Studies

When learning a second language, it is imperative that the language student has access to the best material available.  The dictionary, for example, is a fundamental  addition to any language student’s library, and as such it must be able to give the student assistance without hindering progress.  Therefore, a dictionary must follow certain criteria if it is to function as a valuable tool in the language student’s library.

First, a well-written dictionary will contain two translation options: from the student’s primary language to the language being learnt and vice-versa.  (An example would be English-Spanish and Spanish-English translation.)  This is by far the most important asset to a foreign language dictionary, since it is inevitable that the language student will have need of both options.  Second, the dictionary should have a grammar section; this is an invaluable reference tool, combined with the vocabulary of a dictionary, a student may rapidly access grammatical variations for a particular word.  Furthermore, it should be taken into account the size and details of the dictionary’s appendices.  Options such as number lists, essential phrases, and pronunciation can be of assistance, especially for the beginning student.  Finally, a dictionary should be pocket sized.  In order to best optimize time, the language student may carry such a dictionary with him throughout the day, giving him the option to reference unknown vocabulary whenever the situation arises.  

 

In conclusion, the language student should take great care in the purchasing his dictionary.  Much of his progress will be determined by the availability of information.  If the student takes great precaution in the selection of his dictionary, it is guaranteed that he shall increase his learning capabilities by a considerable margin.