The dictionary and its kinds; the explanatory dictionary

A dictionary is a book in which words are arranged in a certain order, usually alphabetical, and each is given an explanation or information. Dictionaries differ by purpose. If we want to know how a word is spelled, we look in a spelling dictionary; its meaning — in an explanatory dictionary; how it is said in another language — in a translation dictionary. Encyclopaedic dictionaries and dictionaries of synonyms, antonyms, homonyms and paronyms are also compiled. Dictionaries preserve our word stock and pass it to future generations. A pupil who can work with a dictionary finds the needed word quickly.