Dictionary:
* Defines words: It provides the meaning of a word, often with multiple definitions, examples of usage, and parts of speech.
* Focuses on individual words: It is organized alphabetically by word.
* Provides etymology: It might include the history of a word and its origins.
* Covers spelling and pronunciation: It typically includes information about correct spelling and pronunciation.
Thesaurus:
* Lists synonyms: It provides a list of words that have similar meanings to a given word.
* Focuses on relationships between words: It is organized by concept or idea, with entries for different synonyms grouped together.
* Expands vocabulary: It helps you find more precise or nuanced words to use in your writing or speech.
* Helps avoid repetition: It allows you to use different words to express the same meaning, making your writing more engaging and varied.
In a nutshell:
* Dictionary: Tells you *what* a word means.
* Thesaurus: Tells you *other words* that mean the same thing.
Example:
Let's say you want to find a different word for "happy."
* You would look up "happy" in a dictionary to understand its exact definition.
* You would look up "happy" in a thesaurus to find a list of words like "joyful," "delighted," "content," "cheerful," etc.
When to use each:
* Dictionary: For understanding the meaning of a word, checking spelling, or finding its etymology.
* Thesaurus: For expanding your vocabulary, finding synonyms, or avoiding repetition in your writing.