Cobuild English Language Dictionary 2nd Edition: Helping Learners with Real English (Cobuild Series)

COBUILD stands for Collins Birmingham University International Language Database, which is a huge repository of written text covering the last several decades. The criteria for a definition getting into the dictionary is that it must be somewhat well represented in the database. This means that the dictionary omits a lot of definitions which, while being less common, are still in use. For this reason, while the COBUILD is an excellent primary dictionary, it is important to have a second, more comprehensive dictionary, such as the Websters or Funk & Wagnalls, etc. The COBUILD dictionary uses a methodology similar to that used in the great granddaddy of them all, the Oxford English Dictionary, in that it includes numerous sentences to illustrate the definitions it provides, but it is not as scholarly, and therefore would be much easier for many to use. Also, since the COBUILD dictionary is compiled strictly from contemporary usages, it eliminates the need to evaluate the senses for currency of usage. All its definitions are currently in use. Also, it has a friendly feel to it and it is comfortable to use. It's a definite must-have.

The basic barrier to understanding anything is a misunderstood word. If one understands the words on the page, he or she will be able to grasp the subject he is studying. This dictionary helps one to understand words in the English language in a simple manner. It gives you definitions that make sense. It takes the complexities out of the language. It allows you to read a definition without having to then look up a difficult word within the definition. This book has greatly helped me with my studies and I recommend it to anyone.

Cobuild has been with me since my very first steps in English. It always helped me in all the stages of my learning. It won't matter how good your English get or if you're a seasoned English speaker, Cobuild will always have much to offer. Its down-to-earth explanations and rich examples give very precise definitions and understanding of the words and expressions. The pronunciation is easy to learn, and the differences between the major English variations are pointed out when necessary. It's so good to use this dictionary, that I get myself reading it for very long. Sometimes you just get it to take a look at one definition, and then you feel like exploring and reading on and on (which is great for who's learning; you learn even more!). Another important thing is that, once you get used to Cobuild's Dictionary, it'll be easier if you get other Cobuild publications, because their layout and structure are pretty the same. You won't be disappointed at all if you buy it. As another substitute for Cobuild I would also suggest the Longman Series for Learners. Both Longman and Cobuild, have unique features. Which one you're going to choose is up to you and it's a hard choice. To avoid having to choose do just like me and buy both.

The best English dictionary I have used. Clear and concise definitions with helpful examples to aid in understanding. I strongly recommend this one to all the English learners.

Many modern acronyms missing. Good for propping your desk, though.