Why I love the Dictionary – A Tutor and English Major’s Opinion

Words are powerful. Knowing the exact meaning of a word not only helps to understand the message behind what is being said, but also expands on one’s own vocabulary, adding to one’s effectiveness in communication.

What do I mean by communication? The dictionary defines communication as the following:

1)   An act or instance of transmitting.

Transmitting: To send or convey from one person or place to another.

2)   A verbal or written message.

Verbal: Of, relating to or involving words; spoken rather than written.

Message: a form of communication; an underlying theme or idea (not massage: a manipulation of tissue.).

3)   A process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs or behaviors.

Exchange: The act of giving or taking.

Individuals: a single person.

4)   The technique for expressing ideas effectively.

Technique:  A way of carrying out a particular task, esp. the execution or performance of an artistic work or a scientific procedure.

Expressing: Convey (a thought or feeling) in words or by gestures and conduct.

Effectively: In such a manner as to achieve a desired result: "resources used effectively.”

Imagine having no idea what I meant when I said a large vocabulary increases the effectiveness of communication. All of a sudden, my explanation would become much more muddled and massive:

Knowing a growing, widening or stretching amount, or number of words leads to better acts or instances of communication within a verbal or written exchange that conveys, or gives, information clearly and correctly to another individual, or person.

I got tired half way through writing that! So remember, the dictionary is your friend. If you ever stumble across a word you don’t know, be sure to look it up and incorporate it into your vocabulary – it will not only help you in written papers, but it will help you communicate your ideas to other people more clearly. Nothing beats short and sweet communication.

Feel free to come visit us in the Fullerton College Writing Center with your next writing assignment. We are open Monday through Friday. Our hours are Monday through Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Friday 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Please call ahead and make your appointment today! The Fullerton College Writing Center phone number is (714) 992-7153.