Pronunciation Dictionary Longman PDF: Is it Worth Considering?

With the rise of online dictionaries and digital resources, learners of English often wonder if they should still invest in printed dictionaries. In this article, we'll explore whether publishers' limited online offerings make a pronunciation dictionary like Longman's PDF edition worth considering.

Are Online Dictionaries a Viable Option?

Publishers make money from book sales and CD purchases, so it's no surprise that their online dictionaries are often limited in some way. While there is a vast array of free online dictionaries available, they may not be the most comprehensive or user-friendly option for serious English learners.

Why Digital Dictionaries are the Future

With wireless internet connections becoming increasingly widespread, there's no longer any excuse for relying solely on printed dictionaries. Laptops and netbooks have made it possible to access digital resources anywhere, anytime. This shift towards digital learning means that book dictionaries are a thing of the past – we should be focusing on digital dictionaries instead.

What to Look for in a Dictionary

When searching for a dictionary suitable for serious English learners, there are several key features to consider. Firstly, pronunciation is crucial, as it can greatly aid understanding and improvement. Additionally, carefully chosen examples that demonstrate how to use the word correctly are essential.

Introducing Cambridge International Dictionary of English

The Cambridge International Dictionary of English (CIDE) is an excellent example of a comprehensive digital dictionary designed for learners and users of English as a Foreign Language (intermediate and upwards). This unique guide features GuideWords that serve as 'signposts' to help students quickly distinguish between different senses of the same word. The CIDE also provides full coverage of international English, including British, American, and Australian varieties.

Why Choose Cambridge International Dictionary of English?

The CIDE boasts a strictly controlled 2000-word Defining Vocabulary, ensuring that definitions are within the comprehension level of even the lowest-level students. Entries and examples demonstrate vocabulary, grammar, and usage as they are used today, resulting from years of language research and analysis based on information from the Cambridge Corpus of 100 million words.

In conclusion, while online dictionaries may be free and plentiful, a digital dictionary like the CIDE offers comprehensive coverage of English, including pronunciation, examples, and detailed grammar information. As such, it is definitely worth considering for serious English learners in 2009.

Pronunciation dictionary longman pdf