Courseless: Getting the Most Out Of Your Dictionary

From Wörterbuch CH

It’s no surprise that the bilingual dictionary continues to be the cornerstone of language learning, in that appears to be an almost limitless resource for aspiring bilinguals and polyglots. Although a somewhat stale resource, a pocket dictionary may include 20,000 words – double the fluency word count. However, it’s often the case that the
student will learn and use the wrong word, despite using the dictionary.

Here are three tips to prevent making awkward mistakes:

1. Use a target language dictionary. It can be bilingual or monolingual. We’ll start with the former. First off, there’s no excuse not to use a target language dictionary. Many native brands offer online services, including free basic dictionaries and thesaurus. Now, why use a target language brand?
   
   First off, even the bilingual dictionaries are geared towards the native population. For example, I often use Langenscheidt or Duden for online German-English bilingual dictionaries. Both companies are (obviously) German, and will want to include words, phrases and examples Germans may want to use in English.
   
   Second, It’s a great way to cross-reference vocabulary. If you find a word in Oxford you aren’t sure about, try using a target language based dictionary. You may find something different.
2. Use a monolingual dictionary – This is essential for transcending beginner and lower intermediate levels. Switching to a full monolingual dictionary provides numerous benefits; immersion, word associations and a sharper understanding of individual words. Using a thesaurus isn't a bad idea either, especially if you’re still uncertain of how to apply a word. And this will only increase your vocabulary.
   
   Duden is a great example for German. They offer a free online dictionary that, beyond the definition(s), include synonyms, antonyms, examples, and sometimes conjugations.
   
   3. Always cross reference with at least 2 dictionaries if the word or phrase is complicated. In addition, if you are using a bilingual dictionary, look up the word on both sides.For example, let’s say you look up the word “laufen” in your German bilingual dictionary and find “to run”. Be sure to look up the English translation in the opposite dictionary. This might offer some more distinction on using the word. “Laufen” in particular has several uses beyond the verb form. And there are multiple ways to run.

What next?
After you shift through the definitions and discover some new terms, don’t forget to use them! Make flashcards – either on paper or you mobile – keep a word journal, or even just a brief list that you can use as a reference for speaking or writing exercises. Using the wrong word is a mistake – but forgetting to use it is an even bigger one.

Want more information? Why not check out some techniques on language immersion? Otherwise check out one of my favorite dictionaries for German on Amazon.