Microsoft describes the Encarta World English Dictionary on CD‐ROM as “the first new English language dictionary to be written in the USA in 30 years.” Designed for students, adults, schools, libraries, businesses, Internet users and international travelers, it is the product of more than 320 expert editors, lexicographers and consultants from more than 20 English‐speaking countries. The dictionary was compiled, edited, and researched using computer and Internet technology.
Anyone considering the acquisition of the CD‐ROM is encouraged to give the product a good trial and evaluation, in accord with their specific need. The compilation of over 400,000 references, more than 3.5 million words of text, and more than 3,500 illustrations will most likely meet information requirements of the intended audience. The dictionary is an outstanding compilation for academic library patrons, as it provides information on global usage of the English language and vocabulary from all English‐speaking countries. This reviewer gives Encarta World English Dictionary on CD‐ROM a very high recommendation.
After installation, the CD moves rapidly upon command and presents information in a well organized, easy to read manner. Clear instructions on how to use the dictionary are posted. Options are available for viewing local help files, contacting technical support, and diagnosing problems. There is a choice of small, medium and large type size for screen presentations. Local equipment can be used to print articles or definitions; copying to a hard disk is also permitted.
Dictionary entries are complex, with the following information provided: meaning, advice on grammar or usage, word origin, audio and written pronunciation, and full definitions. Some contain the Quickdefine option, which includes pronunciation, part of speech, definition, and occasionally audio pronunciation.
In addition to a dictionary of global English usage, the Encarta World English Dictionary on CD‐ROM provides integrated access to five other reference works:
- 1.
1The Original Roget’s Thesaurus of English Words and Phrases is incorporated in the Thesaurus. Six classes are used to organize the thesaurus: the first three cover the external world (abstract relations, space and the physical world), and the last three relate to the internal world of human beings (intellect, human will, emotion, religion and morality). The QuickSynonym option offers a fast route to synonyms.
- 2.
2The Encarta Book of Quotations is included in the Quotations file. This segment contains over 18,000 quotations from history, politics, literature, religion, science, and popular culture of the world. The QuickQuote button includes instructions for copying a quote to another program.
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3The Encarta Manual of Style and Usage is incorporated in the Style Guide. Its style and usage tips include fundamentals of grammar, punctuation, spelling, word choice, document design, suggestions in usage of software, a spelling checker and grammar checker, fonts, hints on composing e‐mail, online etiquette, plus more. The guide offers a QuickSynonym button for locating words that are the same or similar in meaning.
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4Microsoft Press Computer and Internet Dictionary is part of the Computer Dictionary, containing definitions for computer‐related terms and abbreviations plus terms associated with the Internet.
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5Encarta 2000 Almanac is a portion of the Almanac, a segment containing thousands of facts, figures, and statistics regarding matters in US and world affairs.
The Multimedia research feature directs users to 3,000 images and more than five hours of audio. The image categories include photos of people, animals, art, and architecture, botanical and anatomical illustrations, maps and diagrams. The sound category includes several types of music, example of musical instruments, sound effects, and sounds of animals and birds.
Those considering this dictionary on CD should read the licensing agreement before purchasing. Second, they may wish to read the statement about parental control, an option that can be used to hide definitions containing selected words (content is not actually removed from the program). Adults may turn this option on or off with the use of a password. A third matter, and one which users may find attractive, is the option of a free newsletter. Purchasers can get Encarta Online deluxe updated monthly.
