Product Information Created by using computer, Internet, and database technology, the 'Encarta World English Dictionary' combines the work of 250 lexicographers in ten countries with the power of Microsoft Encarta, the premier name in electronic consumer reference. Microsoft Encarta was a digital multimedia encyclopedia published by Microsoft Corporation from 1993 to 2009. Originally sold on CD-ROM or DVD, it was also later available on the World Wide Web via an annual subscription – although later many articles could also be viewed free online with advertisements. No other dictionary matches M-W's accuracy and scholarship in defining word meanings. Our pronunciation help, synonyms, usage and grammar tips set the standard. Go beyond dictionary lookups with Word of the Day, facts and observations on language, lookup trends, and wordplay from the editors at Merriam-Webster Dictionary. The Encarta store on the site advertises the Encarta World English Dictionary in CD-ROM and DVD format but not as a traditional hardback book. Full-reference Web sites have proliferated as more people write on computers and fewer in longhand or with typewriters.
The Encarta Dictionary (online college dictionary) is a great free resource for people with an advanced level of English.It is a college dictionary. Now, what does this mean?
What is a College Dictionary?
A 'college dictionary' (also known as 'collegiate dictionary') is a dictionary adjusted especially for college students.It should contain the words and phrases a college student is likely to encounter in his studies, and shouldn't go into old and out-of-use words. A good college dictionary should include over 200,000 word entries. It should also be compact enough to be carried around rather easily. (Compare this to a 20 volume full sized dictionary!)
The college dictionary is a key tool for any student.
The Encarta dictionary is an online college dictionary. It has a wide scope of entry words and precise and full definitions.
Here is a comparison between the Encarta dictionary (online version), the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary and the Oxford Essential Dictionary (most basic level):
(Oxford Essential Dictionary) gene = there is no definition for this word.
(This dictionary explains only the most important and basic words, and this word is omitted).
(Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary) gene = a unit inside a cell which controls a particular quality in a living thing that has been passed on from its parents.
(This dictionary is for advanced English learners, so it explains the word as simply as possible.)
(Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary) gene = the basic unit capable of transmitting characteristics from one generation to the next. It consists of a specific sequence of DNA or RNA that occupies a fixed position on a chromosome.
(This dictionary gives the most data. You can really get the full picture. HOWEVER, depending on your vocabulary level, it may contain words that you do not know and would only confuse you.)
Another important feature of the Encarta Dictionary is that it contain word etymology data.
What is word etymology?
Etymology = ![Dictionary Dictionary](/uploads/1/2/6/4/126482589/329097168.jpg)
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the origin and history of a word.For example, this is the etymology of the word prince:
- It arrived to English in the 12th century.
- It arrived from French.
- The French word originally arrived from the Latin word princeps,
which meant 'somebody who takes first place.'
[12th century. Via French< Latin princeps 'somebody who takes first place']
Why is word etymology important?
Imagine you are learning a new word. Let's say the word 'omnipotent.'You find out that it means: 'having total power; able to do anything.'
Then you look at the etymology of the word, and you discover that it comes from the Latin words: omnis ('all') + potens ('able').
Now the word makes much more sense, doesn't it?
So the Encarta dictionary gives you full word etymologies.
Any downsides?
Yes. As wonderful and extensive as it is, it is a high level dictionary. It can definitely be too high for beginning English learners.
Conclusions
Should you use it?This is up to you. If your level of English is advanced enough – go ahead, take advantage of this data rich reference book.
On the other hand, if the definitions sound complicated – it is probably best to choose another dictionary and improve your English further before using this one.
This dictionary is currently available online for free, but it also has several 'children' that can be purchased (in the form of books or CDs).
Encarta Dictionary 2009
Get your own copyEncarta Dictionary Tool
,Encarta Dictionary Online
(Important note: Unfortunately, the online version was discontinued. You can still order it, though.)