31a Finding information in dictionaries
Contents:
Finding help in usage notes
Understanding usage labels
Quick Help: Dictionary information
A good dictionary packs a surprising amount of information about words into a relatively small space.
Finding help in usage notes
Usage notes in dictionaries, such as the following note from Merriam-Webster’s Online Dictionary about the nonstandard word irregardless, often provide extensive information about how a particular usage may affect readers:
Irregardless originated in dialectal American speech in the early 20th century. Its fairly widespread use in speech called it to the attention of usage commentators as early as 1927. The most frequently repeated remark about it is that “there is no such word.” There is such a word, however. It is still used primarily in speech, although it can be found from time to time in edited prose. Its reputation has not risen over the years, and it is still a long way from general acceptance. Use regardless instead.
Understanding usage labels
Many dictionaries include usage labels, which let readers know that some or all meanings of a particular word are nonstandard or inappropriate in certain contexts. An explanation of such labels usually occurs at the beginning of the dictionary. Here are some of the labels Webster’s New World Dictionary uses:
- Archaic: rarely used today except in specialized contexts
- Obsolete or obs.: no longer used
- Colloquial or colloq.: characteristic of conversation and informal writing
- Slang: extremely informal
- Dialect: used mostly in a particular geographic or linguistic area, often one that is specified, such as Scotland or New England
Many dictionaries also label words that are considered offensive and vulgar.