to use a dictionary
1
1.0
- phrasal verb
:
consultar un diccionario
- Nonetheless, students need to be able to use a dictionary effectively.
Examples
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When I read, I use a dictionary, even though I have been told that I must begin to think in Italian, and I will only do so when I give up translating.
Academic text (2011) -
They should use a dictionary or share their knowledge with each other to find the words.
Blog text (1) -
You may use a dictionary and thesaurus.
Fiction book (2001) -
They read it patiently, from beginning to end, using a dictionary if necessary.
Fiction book (1999) -
I was expected to read it, to understand it, and to believe it—all of which I did, using a dictionary when necessary.
Blog text (15) -
The word indefatigable contains meaningful elements, but one has to hear it pronounced or use a dictionary to decide how to pronounce the word correctly.
Academic text (1990) -
Students can often write better essays if they use a dictionary to check the meanings of difficult words.
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When writing a report, it is helpful to use a dictionary to ensure correct spelling and usage of terms.
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If you encounter unfamiliar words while reading, remember to use a dictionary for clarification.
Synonyms
357
1.4
To find information about something in a book, list, or online
How Carefully
Surface Forms
Morphology
use + a + dictionary
The meaning 'to consult a dictionary to find out the meaning, spelling, or usage of a word' is directly and compositionally derived from 'use' (apply) + 'dictionary' (book of word entries) together with the indefinite article, forming a standard verb + object construction. This is a common, cross-linguistic concept and follows straightforward English patterns, so a B1 learner who knows the constituents will readily understand it.
Etymology
Use a dictionary gives a simple picture: you open a book and use the dictionary to find a word. That's why it means 'to consult a dictionary to find out the meaning, spelling, or how to use a word'.