Can we talk about dictionaries and thesaurus? Recommendations needed

[boys2enough]

I have been looking at buying a nice, unabridged, dictionary every holiday season. Every year though I gave up because I got so confused and frustrated after reading the many reviews, often conflicting about each dictionary out there.

Do you have a favorite dictionary that you use at home? I hate the Oxford Modern English Dictionary we have at home. Sometimes even my 8 yo can't words that he's looking for in it. It's ridiculous.

I would like one that is comprehensive. I am not so sure that we need an unabridged though. Any opinions?

I am also looking for a nice thesaurus. Any particular ones that you would recommend? TIA!


Cheers, Lin

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Edited to correct the name of the disctionary we have at home now.

[kedss]

I always like the Roget's Thesaurus, and the good ol' Webster's dictionary seemed fine for me. :)

[elliput]

I have Webster's Collegiate Dictionary (high school graduation gift) and Roget's Thesaurus, but neither have been cracked open in years. Since a computer is usually on in my house I go here instead, http://dictionary.reference.com/

[pb&j]

I still use my old American Heritage dictionary that I got for college. Love it. I agree with the PP who suggested Roget's Thesaurus - can't go wrong with that.


-Ry,
mom to Emma, stillborn 11/04/04
and Max, 01/05/06

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[C99]

I prefer Merriam Webster's dictionary, but I think American Heritage is used more often in the academic world. I have both, and use Webster's more often. Also use Roget's Thesaurus. The Modern Oxford English Dictionary is a beast.

[californiagirl]

American Heritage, unless you care about international English (you might be looking up British or Australian or Indian-English words for some reason) in which case I'd recommend the Encarta. I may be biased, because I know people who work on the American Heritage, but that also means they hire people I know and trust...

[MeAndMyStar]

I use Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary and Thesaurus. So far I've had no problems finding anything. My composition teacher from a couple of years ago said make sure you use a collegiate edition for both and I'm happy with mine.

-Sarah

[tchrmom13]

>I always like the Roget's Thesaurus, and the good ol'
>Webster's dictionary seemed fine for me. :)

I second this vote. These are the books I have in my classroom. Just be sure you get the most updated version of each :)

Heather

Mommy to William 3/20/06