While studying abroad in an unfamiliar place, a foreign dictionary or phrasebook can be your best friend. Here, we've compiled a few tips for finding a dictionary that is clear and most useful:
1. How advanced are your new language skills? Just like babies learning to speak a native language, new language speakers need to start small and learn the basics before any serious verb formations or webs of vocabulary can be memorized. Large, thick, and heavy dictionaries are more suited for intermediate/advanced speakers, and can make it too tempting to skip ahead for beginners, widening the margin for error.
2. While at the bookstore or library, peruse the foreign language dictionaries and phrasebooks and take note of all of the different layouts and formats. Some books have cheat sheets, some have dirty words, some specialize in a certain area; finding one that suits you best can be key.
3. Remember that you won't necessarily be using this book all day/every day. With time, your skills and vocabulary will improve, and you'll be able to use as a supplement to your skills, not a crutch!
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