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What is the structure of a standard dictionary?
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The structure of a standard dictionary entry typically includes several key components. While variations exist, especially between different dictionaries or for specific types of words, the following elements are commonly found:
- Entry Word (Headword):
- This is the word being defined, usually in bold type for easy identification.
- Pronunciation:
- A phonetic transcription of how the word is pronounced, using symbols from the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) or a simplified respelling system.
- Part of Speech:
- Indicates the grammatical category of the word (e.g., noun, verb, adjective, adverb).
- Inflections:
- Shows the different forms of the word, such as plural forms for nouns or verb conjugations.
- Etymology:
- The origin and historical development of the word, tracing its roots and changes in meaning over time.
- Definition(s):
- The explanation of the word's meaning, often with multiple definitions to cover different senses or usages. Definitions are typically numbered.
- Usage Examples:
- Sentences or phrases illustrating how the word is used in context, helping to clarify its meaning.
- Synonyms and Antonyms:
- Words with similar (synonyms) or opposite (antonyms) meanings, providing additional context and related vocabulary.
- Idioms and Phrases:
- Common expressions or phrases in which the word is used with a specific meaning.
- Related Words:
- Other words related to the entry word, such as derivatives or words with similar meanings in a specific context.
For example, a dictionary entry for the word "run" might include:
- Run (entry word)
- /rʌn/ (pronunciation)
- Verb (part of speech)
- ran, running (inflections)
- (etymology - tracing its origins)
- 1. To move at a speed faster than a walk (definition)
- "I run every morning." (usage example)
- Synonyms: sprint, dash (synonyms)
- "run a business" (idiom)