Abridged Dictionary
* Smaller and more concise. They aim to cover a wide range of words, but they provide less detailed information about each entry.
* Focus on common words and usage. They are great for everyday use, quick definitions, and general vocabulary building.
* Ideal for students, casual users, and those seeking a quick reference.
* Examples: Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Oxford American Dictionary
Unabridged Dictionary
* Comprehensive and exhaustive. They contain a vast number of entries, including rare words, specialized terms, and historical language.
* Provide detailed definitions, etymologies (word origins), and examples of usage. They are considered authoritative references for scholars, writers, and anyone seeking in-depth information about the English language.
* Much larger and heavier than abridged dictionaries.
* Examples: Merriam-Webster's Third New International Dictionary, Oxford English Dictionary (OED)
In a nutshell:
Think of an abridged dictionary as a condensed version of an unabridged dictionary. It's like the "Cliff Notes" of dictionaries. An unabridged dictionary is the full, extensive encyclopedia of words.
Which one should you choose?
It depends on your needs:
* Casual use, quick definitions: Abridged dictionary
* Research, specialized vocabulary, in-depth information: Unabridged dictionary